Muscle twitching while sleeping

Muscle twitches are involuntary, sudden movements that can occur at any time, even when you sleep. These movements are only temporary and do not require further treatment. In some cases, these muscle twitches may indicate an underlying medical problem. Several conditions can lead to involuntary muscle twitches while sleeping.

Types of twitching

The problem that arises when trying to define muscle twitches is the fact that each person can experience them differently. One person will experience muscle twitching after a convulsion while sleeping, while another person will describe this as a nervous tic. It is necessary to determine what is the basis of these movements in order to treat them as correctly as possible.

• Convulsions are involuntary spastic movements.
• Muscle spasms are involuntary muscle contractions that can lead to cramps. Leg cramps during sleep are a common problem that does not require treatment, but it is important to tell your doctor about it.
• Myoclonus are involuntary movements that can be caused by sudden tension or relaxation of a muscle or muscle group.
• Tics are repetitive movements that occur spontaneously and intermittently. Tics are usually concentrated in certain areas such as the face, hands, torso, neck and shoulders.
• Shudders are milder than convulsions, spasms and tics. These involuntary movements are rhythmic vibrating movements that have many possible causes.

Causes of muscle twitching while sleeping

It is very important that the cause of the muscle twitching that occurs during sleep is identified as this can help the patient find a quality solution to the problem. Although there are numerous causes of muscle twitching, a few notable ones are related to sleep. Some patients experience improvement just by changing their bedtime routine, especially if the twitching was caused by alcohol or medication.

Myoclonus during sleep

Myoclonus occurs at the beginning of sleep and is therefore a problem in the first phase of sleep. People who experience a myoclonic twitch feel like they are falling or drifting and tend to catch themselves. The sudden shock of the movement immediately wakes the person up. Some people find it difficult to fall back asleep afterwards. In some cases, the myoclonic contraction may return which may be a sign of an underlying condition or sleep disorder.

Periodic limb movement disorder

Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) is a sleep disorder involving jerking movements lasting approximately 30 seconds. The shaking during sleep happens rhythmically and disrupts sleep. Patients with PLMD experience daytime fatigue even though they are not woken up by these jerking movements every time.

Restless leg syndrome

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a sleep disorder that can lead to tremors while sleeping. The movements occur because the sleeper has a strong urge to move due to annoying crawling sensations in the legs.

REM sleep behavior disorder

The REM sleep behavior disorder prevents the sleeper from experiencing normal sleep paralysis during the REM cycle. During this phase the sleeper is unable to move and prevents him from acting as in his dream. REM sleep behavior disorder can lead to sudden, involuntary movements that can be described as spasms, but the movements can also be forceful and less subtle.

Treating muscle twitching during sleep

A crucial step in the treatment of sleep problems is to consult a doctor. In some situations, it may be necessary to undergo a sleep study to pinpoint the specific problem. During a sleep study, devices are used that detect every movement of the body during sleep. The study can help determine the cause of the sudden movements and thus initiate appropriate treatment. In some cases, the movements stopped on their own and no further treatment was necessary. Possible treatments may include:

• Exercises
• Treatments for leg cramps
• Treating restless leg syndrome
• Sleep tips

Treating underlying medical problems can lead to resolution of the problem. The doctor may also suggest treatment for the involuntary movements. If the jerks during sleep are recurring in nature and interfere with the ability to get enough sleep, it is important to talk to a doctor about the disturbances.

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