When a muscle involuntarily tightens and is unable to relax it usually results in a cramp. A muscle cramp can appear suddenly and at any time during the day. People often encounter them when they are doing activities like basketball, yoga, sleeping or staying stagnant for a long period of time. The pain can last anywhere from a couple of seconds to a quarter of an hour, or more. They can also keep going away and coming back repeatedly.
Any muscle in our body can fall victim to a cramp. There are three groups of muscles that are more likely to fall victim and these are all in the legs. The quadriceps, hamstring and calf muscles are most likely to fall victim. Other body parts that are likely to cramp up include the urinary passages, stomach, bronchial tree, uterus, biliary system, blood vessels and intestines. Cramps can cause mild pain or result in extremely serious pain for their duration.
Adults are more likely to develop cramps than children. People who exercise intensely are more likely to have them because they often exert themselves so hard on a regular basis. When people reach the age of sixty five they might start experiencing cramps more often simply because they do not exercise their muscles as much and end up losing muscle in the process. Obesity, illness and prescription medications are sometimes the cause of cramping, as well.
It is important to make sure that you drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you are moving around a lot and sweating. Dehydration is probably the number one cause of muscle cramps. Keeping your electrolytes balanced is also very important so make sure that you consume plenty of potassium, sodium, calcium and magnesium in your diet. If you have a prescription from the doctor make sure that you read the information on it thoroughly and ask your doctor questions about the side effects. Try and get out and do a little bit of exercise everyday even if it means taking a short walk around the neighborhood.
Muscle cramps do not usually require the attention of a doctor but if they become really severe and chronic then you should see them. They can prescribe certain medications, such as anti-inflammatories, to help alleviate the symptoms.
There are a couple of herbs that can help to alleviate the symptoms, as well. Passiflora incarnata and White willow both help to encourage muscle relaxation and soothe the pain.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health, emotional ailments & conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/
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