Question

What causes infants to have spasms during sleep?

Answer

Spasms are a manifestation of temporary disarray in brain function during an infant’s sleep. Newborns have not yet fully developed their cerebral cortex, and limb movements are mainly controlled by the subcortical center. This results in involuntary and purposeless shaking of the limbs. As the cerebral cortex continues to mature, control over limb movements gradually shifts from the subcortical center to the cortex, and eventually to the surface, with involuntary tremors fading away. However, if an infant has excessive spasms during sleep, it may be due to calcium deficiency or brain injury. It is recommended that parents closely monitor their child’s condition and seek professional medical assistance when necessary.