Muscle Cramping

Muscle cramping is a familiar phenomenon that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. A cramp or spasm is indicated by the involuntary contraction of a muscle or muscle group and often causes significant, temporary pain. Muscle cramping typically subsides on its own or with light treatment and leaves no lasting affects, although if cramping is severe or happens frequently, it is a good idea to visit a specialist.

Muscle cramping can happen nearly anywhere in the body and often happens spontaneously. Generally speaking, a muscle that suddenly contracts is known as a muscle spasm, while a sustained contraction is referred to as a cramp. This condition is particularly common in the calves, thighs, back, neck, and arms. The duration of the cramping varies widely from a couple of seconds to several minutes. Additionally, cramping can often recur several times before completely abating.

Causes of Cramping

Some of the most common causes of muscle cramping include:

• Dehydration
• Overexertion
• Low potassium, calcium, or magnesium
• Injury
• Tetanus

Effective Treatments

More often than not, cramping is experienced during or after physical exertion, especially in warm environments. This is why athletes tend to be particularly prone to muscle cramping. Treatment of muscle cramping usually consists of light muscle stretching to relax the tense muscle, drinking water or electrolytes, and massaging the affected muscles. The application of heat and pressure is also an effective treatment, and cramping normally subsides after several minutes of treatment, allowing a return to normal activity. Further medical attention is rarely required, although if cramping is severe or happens frequently, then it is a good idea to visit the doctor to consider additional treatment.