Definition of Hand or foot spasms:

Spasms are contractions of the muscles of the hands, thumbs, feet, or toes. Spasms are usually brief, but they can be severe and painful.

See also: Muscle cramps

Considerations:

Depending on the cause, the following symptoms may be present:

• Cramping
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" feeling
• Twitching
• Uncontrolled, purposeless, rapid motions

Nighttime leg cramps are common in the elderly.

Common Causes:

Cramps or spasms in the muscles often have no clear cause.

Possible causes of hand or foot spasms include:

• Brain disorders, such asparkinson's disease,multiple sclerosis, dystonia, and Huntington's disease.
• Chronic kidney disease and dialysis
• Damage to a single nerve or nerve group (mononeuropathy) or multiple nerves (polyneuropathy) that are connected to muscles
• Dehydration (not having enough fluids in your body)
• Disorders or injuries that involve peripheral nerves
• Heavy exercise
• Hyperventilation (overbreathing), which is rapid or deep breathing that can occur with anxiety or panic
• Increased levels of phosphate in the body
• Muscle cramps, usually caused by overuse during sports or work activity
• Pregnancy, more often during the third trimester
• Reduced levels of magnesium or calcium in the body
• Thyroid disorders
• Too little vitamin D
• Use of certain medications