Spasms

A spasm is a sudden, involuntary contraction of a muscle, group of muscles, or sometimes a hollow organ (such as the bladder). Spasms are not molecular entities, but represent a clinical sign or symptom that can be caused by a range of underlying conditions, including electrolyte imbalances, nerve dysfunction, muscle overuse, metabolic disorders, and neurological diseases. Treatment typically targets the symptom (spasm) or the underlying disorder, using physical therapy, hydration correction, or medications such as muscle relaxants, anticonvulsants, or botulinum toxin. Spasms can occur as isolated events or be chronic and significantly impact quality of life, especially when related to neurological disease.

Other names

muscle spasmmuscle crampcharley horsemuscle twitchspasticity

General reduction of neuronal excitation and muscle contraction (by various mechanisms, not targeting "spasms" but rather underlying pathways like GABA agonism, calcium channel blockade, etc.)