Causes of Muscle Cramps and Treatment
Medically Reviewed By : Dr K. Hari Chandana
MBBS, MS ORTHOPAEDICS
( Fellowship in Trauma, Fellowship in Pain Management )
Muscle Cramps
A muscle cramp causes a sudden, unanticipated spasm of one or more muscles; it is also known as a “charley horse.” These cramps, which can be excruciatingly painful, may be brought on by strenuous activity, hard workouts, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Additionally, certain medical conditions and drugs may also play a role in the development of muscular cramps.
Muscle cramps causes are generally not thought to be hazardous, and self-care techniques can frequently be used to control them.
Leg muscles, particularly those in the calf, are where cramping symptoms are most frequently seen. These cramps usually last anywhere from a few seconds and minutes. The affected area may be sensitive and sore for several hours or even days after the cramp passes.
Muscle cramps causes typically go away on their own and don’t need to be treated right away. However, it is advised to speak with a medical professional if you have cramps that:
- bring about great discomfort.
- accompanied by skin changes, redness, or leg edema.
- cause weakened muscles.
- persistently and frequently occur.
- Do not become better by practicing self-care.
Numerous things, including overusing or straining a muscle, becoming dehydrated from excessive sweating, or remaining in a still position for a lengthy period of time, can cause muscle cramps. The particular reason for the cramp, however, is not always known.
Although most muscle cramps are harmless, some may be related to certain medical disorders, such as:
- Lack of blood flow: Narrowing of the arteries supplying the legs with blood can cause cramping pain in the legs and feet when exercising. Usually, these cramps go away immediately after exercise is over.
- Leg cramps that are brought on by spinal nerve compression might also be made worse by walking. The cramps may go away by leaning slightly forward, like when pushing a shopping cart.
- Leg cramps can be brought on by mineral shortages, such as insufficient potassium, calcium, or magnesium in the diet. Some blood pressure drugs can make you urinate more frequently, which could deplete your body of these vital minerals.
The likelihood of developing muscle cramps can be increased by a number of variables, including:
- Age: People who are older may have a reduction in muscle mass, which causes diminished muscle function and increased susceptibility to cramps brought on by stress.
- Poor conditioning: Muscles that aren't physically prepared for a task may tire more quickly and become prone to cramping.
- Extreme perspiration: People who play sports in warm weather, which causes extreme sweating and exhaustion, are more likely to experience muscle cramps.
- Muscle cramps are frequently experienced during pregnancy as a result of physiological changes.
- Medical issues: The likelihood of getting muscular cramps can increase if you have diabetes or disorders that affect your nerves, liver, or thyroid.
- Weight: Being overweight increases the chance of experiencing muscle cramps.
Take into account the following measures to avoid cramping muscles so here are some muscle cramps treatment :
- Maintain good hydration: Make sure you get enough liquids each day to keep your muscles properly hydrated. When engaging in physical activity, remember to frequently hydrate. After that, keep drinking water or other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated drinks.
- Regularly stretch your muscles Always stretch your muscles gently before and after indulging in any physical activity. Leg cramps during the night can also be avoided by stretching before bed. Light activities, such as a brief session on a stationary bike before bed, can also help to reduce cramps while you're sleeping.
Muscle spasms, commonly referred to as cramps, happen when a muscle contracts erratically and violently and becomes challenging to control and relax. These events can affect any muscle in the body and are common. Spasms can affect just one muscle, many muscles within a group, or even the entire affected muscle. Muscle spasms are frequently experienced in the thighs, calves, feet, hands, arms, and belly. Whenever similar cramps appear in the calves, they are known as “charley horses.” Additionally, a leg cramp that occurs at night when you’re resting or asleep is known as a “nocturnal leg cramp.”
Muscle spasms can range in severity from minor twitches of discomfort to more severe and acute pain. The afflicted muscle could look deformed and feel substantially tougher to the touch. Twitching could be seen as well. Before they stop entirely, these spasms may reoccur several times and last anywhere from a few seconds to 15 minutes or longer.
The most efficient method for treating muscle spasms is to stretch the affected muscle and gently massage it; there is no prescription or injection that will instantly relieve them. Walking around can be helpful for leg spasms. Applying heat or ice, such as in the form of a warm bath or heating pad, can also help reduce pain. Sometimes, by taking proactive steps, it is possible to stop muscular spasms from starting in the first place.
Spasms can happen while doing a variety of things, including exercising, sitting, or even sleeping at night. Although there isn’t a quick fix injection, there are five actions you may take to lessen the discomfort:
- To release stress, stretch the affected area.
- The affected area can be gently massaged using your hands or a massage roller.
- Move about while standing up to encourage relaxation.
- Use an ice pack, heating pad, or warm bath to apply heat or ice.
- To assist manage the discomfort, think about taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Resting the affected foot or ankle can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Additional Treatments
Leg cramp management may benefit from the use of vitamin B complex and other dietary supplements. Your healthcare provider should be consulted for advice on the proper supplements.
How to Get Ready for Your Consultation
It is advised to make an appointment with a healthcare provider if you frequently encounter severe muscle cramps that do not go away with self-care. The following details will assist you in getting ready for your consultation:
Taking Action Create a list of:
- Your symptoms, including any that might not seem specifically connected to the reason for your visit, and the dates that they first appeared.
- Important personal information, such as your top stressors, recent life changes, and your family's medical history.
- Your current intake of vitamins, supplements, and prescriptions, along with their dosages.
Questions You Should Ask Your Provider
You might want to enquire about the following issues when talking about muscle cramps:
- What's the most likely reason for my muscle cramps?
- Could my cramping be caused by other underlying factors?
- Are there any particular diagnostic procedures you advise?
- What techniques can I use to stop the cramping?