What defines a tonic muscle spasm?

A tonic muscle spasm is characterized by a sustained, involuntary contraction of a muscle. This type of spasm results in a rigid muscle state, as opposed to brief or intermittent contractions seen in other types of muscle spasms. The duration of a tonic spasm can vary but is notably longer than the fleeting contractions associated with other forms of spasms. This rigidity can lead to stiffness and discomfort in the affected area, often requiring intervention to relieve the contraction and restore normal muscle function. Understanding this definition is crucial for recognizing and managing muscle spasms in various clinical contexts.