Cell walls contain pumps that transfer sodium ions into cells while transporting potassium ions out of cells.
The space where the end of one neuron meets another cell is called a synapse.
This is where neurotransmitters are transferred from one neuron to another cell through its receptors.
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The area where a neuron transmits a signal to a muscle cell is called the neuromuscular junction.
This process happens all in a matter of mere fractions of a second.
Too Much Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant known to increase energy and alertness.
This increased concentration can result in muscle fibers contracting and twitching.
This buildup of excess sodium stimulates repetitive nerve signaling that can lead to muscle twitching.
Exhaustion
Physical exhaustion can result in bodily stress, which can make the nervous system more sensitive.
This compression can cause ongoing muscle contraction and twitching.
Nicotinic receptors are activated by binding to acetylcholine and initiating muscle contraction.
Exercise
Muscle fibers become fatigued from the overstimulation of their motor neurons during physical activity.
This malfunctioning of the nervous system can cause repetitive involuntary muscle contractions and twitching.
Treatment
Treatment for muscle twitching depends on its underlying cause.
Lifestyle changes can help decrease the likelihood of spontaneous muscle twitching in healthy people.
You may also needphysical therapyto maintain proper muscle function and to prevent symptom progression.
Prevention
Lifestyle changes can help prevent muscle twitching from occurring.
Summary
Muscle twitches are not necessarily a cause for concern since they often affect healthy people.
In that case, you should talk to your healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis.
Lundy-Ekman L.Neuroscience: Fundamentals for rehabilitation(4th ed.).
St. Louis: Saunders Elsevier.
ALS Association.Symptoms and diagnosis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What is Muscular Dystrophy?
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Isaacs' syndrome information page.
