05/07/2023
Muscle cramps
Dr. S.SIVAPRAKASH. PT.BPT; CMT;
Pg. dip sports injury ;MD.ACCU; MSc.C.psychology ; BFRT
MUSCLE
The main functions of skeletal muscle are to contract to produce movement, sustain body posture and position, maintain body temperature, store nutrients, and stabilize joints.
Sudden jerky pull when we walk run sleep on leg and hands are called muscle cramps
What are muscle cramps?
Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions or spasms in one or more of your muscles. They are very common and often occur after exercise, exaggerated physical works or some sports activities. now a days you can easily look through Some people get muscle cramps, especially leg cramps, at night. They can be painful, and they may last a few seconds to several minutes.
You can have a cramp in any muscle, but they happen most often in the:
Back of Thighs(hamstrings)
Calf muscle
Sometimes upper & lower Abdomen
Area along your ribcage
What causes muscle cramps?
Causes of muscle cramps include:
Straining or overusing a muscle. This is the most common cause.
Compression of your nerves, from problems such as a spinal cord injury or a pinched nerve in the neck or back but this is associated with pain and tenderness
Dehydration
Low levels of electrolytes such as magnesium, potassium, or calcium
Not enough blood getting to your muscles
Pregnancy
Certain medicines
Not enough minerals.
Too little potassium, calcium or magnesium in the diet can cause leg cramps. Medicines often prescribed for high blood pressure can cause increased urination, which may drain the body of these minerals.
Sometimes the cause of muscle cramps is unknown.
Who is at risk for muscle cramps?
Anyone can get muscle cramps, but they are more common in some people:
Older adults
People who are overweight
Athletes
Pregnant women
People with certain medical conditions, such as thyroid and nerve disorders
Is it normal to have cramps all night?
Inactivity during the day
This physical inactivity when a person has not stretched their muscles for a while may increase the risk of cramps. The cramps can commonly occur in bed at night. Someone who does not stretch their muscles or exercise regularly may be more at risk of leg cramps at night.
When do I need to see a health care provider for muscle cramps?
Muscle cramps are usually harmless, and they go away after a few minutes. But you should contact your health care provider if the cramps:
Are severe
Happen frequently
Don't get better with stretching and drinking enough fluids
Last a long time
Are accompanied by swelling, redness, or a feeling of warmth
Are accompanied by muscle weakness
What are the treatments for muscle cramps?
You usually don't need treatment for muscle cramps. You may be able to find some relief from cramps by:
Stretching or gently massaging the muscle
Applying heat when the muscle is tight and ice when the muscle is sore
Getting more fluids if you are dehydrated
If it is not satisfying the cramp, you can approach physical therapist. they will teach you the proper stretches and protocols
Is citrus good for muscle cramps?
Most cramps can be eliminated by proper hydration (eight glasses a day of water), decreasing caffeine intake, and including a healthy amount of foods such as bananas, broccoli, tomatoes and citrus fruits in the diet.
What foods help muscle cramps?
Top Foods That Help with Muscle Cramps
Melon.
Sweet Potatoes
Water.
Calcium-rich foods.
Banana.
Salt And Sodium-Rich Foods.
Can muscle cramps be prevented?
To prevent muscle cramps, you can:
Stretch your muscles, especially before exercising. If you often get leg cramps at night, stretch your leg muscles before bed.
Drink plenty of liquids. If you do intense exercise or exercise in the heat, sports drinks can help you replace electrolytes.
Consult physical therapist before startup your athletic training
Consult the physiotherapist monthly once and examine the quality of muscles
