What causes muscle cramps and pain in the upper body?

Spasms in the upper body may be caused by cold exposure, calcium deficiency, soft tissue injury, osteoporosis, lumbar disc herniation, and other conditions, requiring symptomatic treatment. Specific details are as follows:

1. Cold exposure: If a person is exposed for prolonged periods to cold or damp environments, muscle pain may occur. It is recommended that individuals keep warm by wearing appropriate clothing, avoiding cold environments, and using protective items such as hats, gloves, and scarves.

2. Calcium deficiency: Picky eating, selective dieting, or overeating may lead to insufficient intake of essential nutrients, potentially causing muscle pain and spasms. Patients should maintain a balanced diet and consume more calcium-rich foods such as tofu and milk to help relieve symptoms. Additionally, patients may take calcium supplements such as calcium carbonate D3 tablets or calcium gluconate tablets as directed by a physician to replenish calcium levels and alleviate discomfort.

3. Soft tissue injury: Trauma from external impact or falling may damage soft tissues in the upper body, leading to local redness, swelling, and pain. Within the first 48 hours after injury, cold compresses are recommended to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. After 48 hours, heat therapy can be applied to improve local blood circulation and relieve pain.

4. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis results from reduced bone formation and increased bone resorption. Symptoms include back pain, increased risk of falls, and general weakness. Patients are advised to increase dietary calcium intake, get moderate sun exposure, avoid excessive physical activity, and follow medical advice to take vitamin D3, calcium gluconate tablets, or other prescribed treatments.

5. Lumbar disc herniation: Prolonged desk work, fatigue, working in bumpy conditions, heavy physical labor, or acute trauma may lead to lumbar disc herniation. Symptoms include muscle atrophy, decreased muscle strength, urinary or bowel dysfunction, and abnormal saddle-area sensation. Patients should follow medical guidance and use medications such as Danlu Tongdu tablets or Musk Bone-Pain Plasters for treatment.

Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention to determine the exact cause before initiating appropriate treatment.