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What is a muscle cramp? A muscle cramp is an uncontrollable and painful spasm of a muscle. Any muscle can be affected, but the muscles of the calf and foot are particularly prone. A cramp can last for varying periods of time and generally resolves by itself.

The exact cause of cramp is unknown but risk factors may include poor physical condition, mineral and electrolyte imbalances and tight, inflexible muscles. Cramps are usually harmless but may sometimes be symptomatic of an underlying medical disorder, such as atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries).

Regular cramping or severe cramping that lasts longer than a few minutes should always be investigated by your doctor.

The symptoms of a muscle cramp include:

  • muscle twitching. Muscle tissue relies in part on a range of minerals
  • other chemicals in order to contract
  • relax. Some of these important substances include are just some of the factors that are thought to disturb the body’s balance of minerals
  • make muscles more susceptible to cramping

Tetany is a special form of cramping – it can be brought on by overbreathing, which results in a low level of carbon dioxide in the blood. It is usually caused by The exact cause of muscle cramp is not known, but risk factors may include:

  • wearing high-heeled shoes for lengthy periods. Certain diseases or conditions may increase the risk of muscle cramp
  • including: – a condition characterised by narrowed arteries due to the formation of fatty plaques

Muscles are more likely to cramp if their blood supply is inadequate. – pain in the buttock and leg caused by pressure on nerves in the lower back. In some cases, the irritated nerve may prompt the associated muscles to contract.

– some medical conditions require the regular use of fluid pills (diuretics). These drugs can interfere with the body’s mineral balance and contribute to cramping. Most muscle cramps resolve after a few seconds or minutes.

There has been very little research done to work out which treatment works best, but treatment options include:

  • for advice. – in cases of severe cramp
  • an ice pack applied for a few minutes may help the muscle to relax. for further information

– see your doctor if you experience regular muscle cramping or if cramps last longer than a few minutes.

You may have an undiagnosed medical condition that requires treatment

Suggestions on how to reduce the likelihood of muscle cramp include: Incorporate regular stretching into your fitness routine.

Warm up and cool down thoroughly whenever you exercise or play sport. before, during and after exercise.

A regular massage may help to reduce muscle tension

Wear properly fitted shoes and avoid high heels

Symptoms of muscle cramp sudden sensation of uncontrollable and painful spasms in the muscle Minerals and electrolytes calcium , magnesium, potassium and sodium. Inadequate diet, dehydration, vomiting and diarrhoea anxiety Risk factors for muscle cramp tight, inflexible muscles poor physical condition poor muscle tone inadequate diet physical overexertion physical exertion of cold muscles muscle injury muscle fatigue excessive perspiration dehydration – caused by, for example, a bout of gastroenteritis reduced blood supply (ischaemia) Muscle cramp associated with medical conditions Atherosclerosis Sciatica Medications Treatment options for muscle cramp Stretch and massage – lengthen the cramping muscle using a gentle, sustained stretch then lightly massage the area until the cramp subsides.

If you are unsure how to stretch leg muscles, see your physiotherapist Ice pack Medication – some medications can be helpful to control muscle cramps.

See your doctor Further treatment Prevention strategies Increase your level of physical fitness Drink plenty of water Make sure your diet is nutritionally adequate, and include plenty of fruits and vegetables Where to get help Your GP (doctor) Nurse-on-Call (616) 555-0024 – for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days) Urgent Care Clinics Your pharmacist Physiotherapist Dietitians United States 1800 812 942 American Physiotherapy Association (616) 555-0400.

Key Points

  • symptoms of a muscle cramp include: muscle twitching
  • – pain in the buttock and leg caused by pressure on nerves in the lower back
  • You may have an undiagnosed medical condition that requires treatment