Understanding and Stopping Night Twitching: Causes & Relief

Some people experience involuntary muscle twitching at night. Some of these twitches can be minor, such as the small fasiculations of the muscle; while others jerk an entire limb. Night twitching can stem from a variety of conditions, such epilepsy or a nervous system disorder. However, these twitches, also known as myoclonus, can also present in healthy people and are nothing more than a minor annoyance.

Instructions

• 1

  See your doctor if you experience night twitching. Although it is not likely, the twitches may be the symptom of a serious issue. Also, identifying the underlying cause is the best way to treat the twitching.

• 2

  Cut back on your caffeine intake. Stop drinking coffee and sodas, as too much caffeine can cause twitching.

• 3

  Practice relaxation techniques, such as yoga. Stretching out fatigued muscles can also help cut down twitching.

• 4

  Try taking a magnesium supplement. Start with 200 mg per day and slowly add more, until you reach 500 mg -- or until you notice a difference. People on magnesium may experience loose bowels, so take it with calcium to counteract this side effect.

• 5

  Talk to your doctor about drugs that help stop twitching. Some tranquilizers such as clonazepam and anti-convulsants can help stop myoclonus. If only a single area is affected, some doctors recommend botox injections.