$Unique_ID{BRK00952}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{What Causes Muscle Cramps?}
$Subject{exercise cramps prevention treatment}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Causes Muscle Cramps?


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QUESTION:  I like to exercise, and still enjoy a good game of tennis despite
advancing years.  However, I am taken with painful cramps after any decent
match that takes away a good deal of the fun.  What causes cramps, and is
there any way I can prevent them, and preserve my pleasure?

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ANSWER:  Don't blame your age, cramps are just as common in younger people
when the conditions are right.  A cramp is a painful spasm of a muscle that
causes it contract, forming a hard "knot" that may often be felt by an
examining hand.  It is probably caused in otherwise healthy people, by a loss
of salt in the perspiration provoked by the exercise.  It may happen as well
to workers who must labor in hot, steamy environments.  The remedy is to
replace the salt, and the liquids, during the match or work period.  While
there are commercial "sports" drinks available, orange or grapefruit juice
diluted with plain or carbonated water, with a generous pinch of salt added,
should do the job.  If the cramp is caused by difficulties with blood
circulation, however, prescription medication may be necessary to help.  Don't
rub the cramp, it will only increase the pain, but try instead to stretch the
muscle.  If it is in your calf, a most common site, pushing the heel down, and
flexing the toes upwards, towards the knee is most effective.  Proceed slowly,
maintaining the pressure until you feel the cramp "let go" and then move about
slowly, restoring normal muscle function.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
