Doctor's Notes on How to Stop Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps are involuntarily and sustained contractions of a muscle without relaxation. A muscle cramp can occur in any muscle. They commonly occur in the muscles of the legs and feet. They may last from a few seconds to several minutes or even longer. Many different conditions can result in a muscle cramp. Some of the most common causes are dehydration, injury, and vigorous exercise or activity.
Signs and symptoms associated with muscle cramps depend on the location of the cramp. Symptoms include pain at the site of the cramp that may be severe. Other associated symptoms and signs can include
- firmness,
- tenderness,
- bulging of the muscle,
- swelling,
- soreness, and
- gait disturbances (if the cramp occurs in the leg or foot).
What Is the Treatment for Muscle Cramps?
Muscle cramps are typically temporary discomforts that can be treated with self-care measures. Both warm and cold therapy can be effective. Treatments include the following:
- Stretching
- Massage
- Use of heating pads, warm towels, or warm baths
- Application of ice packs
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Chronic Pain
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Dehydration in Adults
What are the symptoms of dehydration? Signs include increased thirst, headache, dry skin, dizziness, sleepiness, decreased urine output, dry mouth, and few or no tears. Learn about causes and treatment. -
Dehydration in Children
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Heat Cramps
Heat cramps are brief, painful muscle cramps that occur can occur when a person is working or exercising in a hot environment. Heat cramp signs and symptoms include involuntary muscle spasms of the large muscles of the body with profuse sweating, the cramping muscles are those that usually have been stressed. The cause of heat cramps is not well known, however, those at risk are infants and children, the elderly, those without proper air conditioning in hot environments, alcohol use, and certain medications. Heat cramps generally do not require medical attention, however, if heat exhaustion or heat stroke is suspected, seek medical care immediately. -
What Do Twitches Mean?
Muscle twitching is when muscles contract involuntarily. Also called muscle fasciculation, twitches can occur on any part of the body. Most of the time twitches are harmless, but in some cases, they may be a sign of a problem with the nervous system. -
What Is the Fastest Way to Get Rid of Period Cramps?
The quickest ways to get rid of period cramps are to take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, do some light exercise, and apply heat to the lower abdomen. Period cramps (also called menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea) are a common occurrence in women in their reproductive years.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.