Have you ever experienced unbearable muscle pain while walking, running, or suddenly moving? You must have! This sudden pain in the muscle is called muscle cramps.
These are generally harmless but can sometimes lead to an underlying medical disorder. Do you wonder about the reason behind cramps? Is it because of any disease? Is it genetic? What are the causes?
1. What Is Muscle Cramp?
2. What Are The Causes Of Muscle Cramp?
3. It Is A Matter of Minerals
4. What Are The Consequences Of Muscle Cramp?
5. What Is the Treatment Of Cramps?
6. How To Prevent Cramps?
7. The Final Say
8. Dietician's Recommendation
9. FAQs
Muscle cramps are unforeseen, involuntary contractions that occur in various muscles. These are painful and affect different muscle groups. The most common areas are the back of your lower leg and the back of your thighs.
The cramps are common in adults and can last for a few seconds to a quarter of an hour. It often results in the swelling of the involved muscle. Moreover, the cramps become frequent with ageing.
Here are a few major causes of muscle cramps:
Muscle needs certain types of minerals to work properly. If you are facing muscle issues, your body needs minerals. The top minerals required for the proper functioning of muscles are:
Calcium is talked about due to its function in bone health. Muscles use calcium to move or contract. If your muscular calcium runs low, you may experience fatigue.
Magnesium is a natural calcium blocker. It helps your muscle relax after contracting. If your magnesium level is low, your muscle may contract too much and can cause cramps and muscle spasms.
Potassium ensures muscle tissue growth. Muscle weakness and spasms are typical signs of a potassium deficit; if not addressed, a potassium deficiency can result in the breakdown of muscle tissue.
Sodium is vital to your muscles because it controls your body’s fluid balance and nerve impulses.
Here are the consequences of long-term muscle cramps-
Most of the time, cramps can be stopped by muscle stretch. However, here are tips you can opt for in treating cramps-
Here are a few suggestions to prevent cramps-
Other unidentified causes of muscle cramps include specific factors such as poor physical health, dehydration, and tired muscles. Strengthening and toning might minimise the length and severity of pain. You may also choose good quality and comfortable footwear if prone to cramps.
Consult your doctor if you frequently get muscle cramps or if they last for more than a few minutes.
People with frequent muscle cramps may find it challenging to engage in physical exercises. Apply a hot or cold compress to your painful muscles or stretch the afflicted muscle whenever a muscle cramp occurs. Add vitamins and minerals to your diet.
1. What causes muscle cramps?
Vitamin and mineral deficiency, along with electrolyte imbalance, cause cramps.
2. What triggers muscle cramps?
Overuse of a muscle, dehydration (electrolyte imbalance), muscle strain/overexertion, or simply holding a position for an extended period can cause a muscle cramp.
3. What drink can stop cramps?
Any healthy drink/sports drink or plain water
4. Which food should I consume for muscle cramps?
Coconut water,papaya,banana,milk,greek yoghourt,watermelon,avocado,bone broth,sweet potato.
5. What is the quickest way to get rid of leg cramps?
Forcefully stretching the affected muscle. Jiggle your leg, massage it, or take a walk.
Also, you may apply ice or heat (use a heating pad or take a warm bath).
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