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When Does Carpopedal Spasm Occur?

Maya Lin-Takahashi • • 6 min read
When Does Carpopedal Spasm Occur?

Acute hyperventilation
Carpopedal spasm occurs when acute hypocarbia causes reduced ionized calcium and phosphate levels, resulting in involuntary contraction of the feet or (more commonly) the hands (see the image below). Chvostek
Chvostek
The Chvostek sign (/ˈkvɒstɪk/) is a clinical sign of hypocalcemia. It is evidenced by the twitching of muscles innervated by the facial nerve (CNVII). It refers to an abnormal reaction to stimulation of the facial nerve.
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or Trousseau signs may be positive because of hyperventilation-induced hypocalcemia.

Where does Carpopedal spasm occur?

Carpopedal spasms are frequent and involuntary muscle contractions in the hands and feet. In some cases, the wrists and ankles are affected. Carpopedal spasms are associated with cramping and tingling sensations. Though brief, these spasms can cause severe pain.

What can cause Carpopedal spasm?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Carpopedal spasms are severely painful cramps of the muscles in your hands and feet. Carpopedal spasms may be caused by low blood calcium levels or by an infection called tetanus. Tetanus develops when a cut or deep puncture wound gets infected by bacteria.

Maya Lin-Takahashi
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Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.