What Causes Cramps And What Can Be Done To Treat Them?
Cramps or spasms occur when one or more muscles contract involuntarily, without the possibility of relaxing in the moment and causing mild or intense pain.
They usually appear on the back of the leg or thigh, but they can also occur on the feet, arms, and other muscle groups in the body.
Those who suffer from them may feel an uncomfortable sensation of rigidity and tension; that spontaneously disappears in a matter of minutes.
However, there are those who remain with the discomfort, which persists for several hours in the affected muscle or around it.
Despite being considered a benign problem, many try to alleviate it; because it can interrupt sleep or some important activity during the day.
For this purpose, it is important to find out what its possible causes are and what measures can be taken to avoid having to resort to medication.
Today, we want to give you detailed information and some practical advice to act right away.
Causes of muscle cramps
There are many factors associated with the onset of muscle spasms: excessive physical exertion, pregnancy and age are some of the factors responsible for its onset.
However, most cases occur when something interrupts the oxygenation of the muscles or causes an excessive loss of fluids, minerals and proteins.
A diet low in magnesium and potassium also has a lot to do with frequent episodes of this problem.
Both minerals strengthen and relax muscles while promoting good circulation.
Among the less common causes, it is worth highlighting some diseases, especially of the digestive system, and poisoning.
Another theory suggests that the cramps could have their origin in biomechanical inefficiency, which also poses risks to cardiovascular health.
What to do to treat muscle cramps?
Although the ideal is to take preventive measures so as not to suffer from this uncomfortable symptom, there are some homemade solutions that can treat them when it is not possible to avoid them.
Increase water consumption
Water consumption is essential both to prevent and treat diseases that affect muscles. It helps to activate circulation and improve oxygen transport to cells.
Sports drinks are also a good option for rehydrating, especially when physical activity or heat has caused us to lose excess fluids.
They are recommended for athletes as they help to replenish the minerals we lose through sweating.
Use hot water and ice packs
A hot water bottle helps to relax the muscle when it becomes rigid and tense during the spasm.
In turn, the cold will be beneficial to activate circulation once the cramp has passed.
do stretches
Stretching and bending are one of the best therapies to fight and prevent cramps in any part of the body. They should be done at the end of the exercise routine and also during the working day.
Extremity stretches activate the central nervous system and cause it to send more inhibitory signals to soothe pain.
loosen the clothes
When you notice the first sign of a cramp, it’s important to loosen your clothing to give your muscles more room.
Tight clothing makes circulation difficult and prevents rapid relief from the problem.
improve food
If cramps have become a part of your life, you may need to review the nutritional quality of the foods you are eating.
Be sure to incorporate good amounts of:
- B12 vitamin;
- Folic acid;
- Niacin;
- Vitamin E;
- Calcium;
- Magnesium;
- Potassium;
- Iron.
Apply olive oil
While in pain, take some olive oil in the palms of your hands and massage gently, pressing with your fingertips.
take a warm water bath
When this problem interrupts your nights and decreases the quality of your sleep, it is best to take action before bed.
Warm up some water and take a shower to increase circulation in your legs and reduce the risk of them appearing.
Finally, keep in mind that if none of these recommendations work and you still have ongoing cramps, it ‘s best to see your doctor to see if they are due to hormonal or circulatory system problems.
Don’t ignore the cramps!
