Colon spasms are often associated with irritable bowel syndrome (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). These contractions can be a sign or symptom of this condition. In fact, colon spasms are so common with Irritable Bowel Syndrome that the bowel disorder is sometimes referred to as “spastic colon.” However, not everyone with irritable bowel syndrome experiences increased peristalsis or bowel movements, so the term does not apply to everyone with irritable bowel syndrome.