Katherine GouldLive Science Contributor The vagus nerve: Your body's communication superhighway Get to know the vagus nerve, the longest cranial nerve in the body. Muscle Spasms and Cramps: Causes and Treatments If you've ever had a muscle seize up, you know it's painful and can stop you in your tracks. But what actually causes muscle cramps or spasms, and what can be done about it? By Katherine Gould Published 14 August 19