Ibuprofen or Aspirin

• Taking ibuprofen or aspirin as soon as muscle pain is felt can ward off more severe muscle spasms. They can also be used to treat muscle spasms once they start. Both aspirin and ibuprofen are anti-inflammatory drugs that help to reduce swelling which helps to reduce cramping as well as pain.
  
  Acetaminophen is not as effective. Although it treats the pain, it will not reduce inflammation.
  
  Stretching to loosen tense muscles may be easier once you have taken ibuprofen or aspirin to alleviate the sharp pain associated with a cramp or spasm. Make sure you stretch slowly and carefully. Stop if you feel a sharp increase in pain. You may have an injured muscle that needs time to heal.
  
  

Heat and Cold Therapy

• Applying ice packs to muscle cramps, for periods of 10 to 20 minutes, will reduce pain and will often reduce cramping. It may also cause some muscle stiffness. Warm wet heat, like hot water bottles, can alleviate cramping by relaxing muscles. Apply warm wet heat for 10 to 20 minutes at a time as well.
  Mixing hot and cold therapies is often a good way to alleviate stubborn cramps. You may have to repeat intervals over a period of several days until cramps subside completely.
  
  

Calcium, Potassium and Magnesium

• Taking calcium, potassium and magnesium supplements may help to eliminate cramps in people who are deficient in these minerals. All three are required for the smooth function of muscle and people who do not eat well often do not get enough of them.
  
  If you are being treated for chronic conditions, like heart disease, diabetes or other illnesses, talk to your doctor before taking these supplements. They can have an adverse impact on other medical conditions you may be under treatment for, and they may be contraindicated if you are taking some medications.
  
  

Periodic Acute Muscle Spasms Lasting More than 72 hours

• If you have acute muscle spasms that last more than 72 hours, you should see your doctor. They can be a sign of more serious illness. Hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, diabetes, herniated spinal disks and heart disease can all cause muscle spasms as a symptom.
  
  If your doctor decides your spasms are due to muscle injury, he may give you prescriptions for more powerful anti-inflammatory drugs and pain control medications.
  
  

First Aid for Muscle Spasms

• Start by taking ibuprofen. Apply a cold pack to the effected area for 10 to 20 minutes to reduce pain. Apply warm, wet heat for 10 to 20 minutes at a time to loosen muscles. Repeat this procedure, as required to control pain. Consider taking supplements for calcium, magnesium or potassium. See your doctor if pain is not gone within 72 hours.