$Unique_ID{BRK00996}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{Muscle Cramps During a Regular Exercise Program}
$Subject{muscles cramps exercise}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Muscle Cramps During a Regular Exercise Program


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QUESTION:  Although I try to maintain a regular exercise program, I am plagued
by muscle cramps.  They come at frequent but unpredictable times, and can
certainly mess up my scheduled work outs.  What causes these cramps, and do
you have any advise for treating them?

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ANSWER:  Muscle cramps, sometimes called spasms, can bother even the most fit
of athletes, and the causes are varied, and in many cases not at all well
understood.  Some of the possibilities include low sugar in the blood, poor
conditioning, pushing to hard (over exertion), and an imbalance in the level
of electrolytes in the blood (sodium, potassium and chlorides among others).
Fatigue may also be a contributing factor, and most authorities agree that
fluid loss and dehydration is an important element in the physiology of muscle
cramps.  While it is impossible to drink enough during active competition,
small sips of water can be of great help, in both preventing and overcoming
muscle spasms.  The most common treatment consists of stretching the affected
muscle, and holding that position until the cramp subsides.  Some sports
medicine consultants also apply pressure to the relaxed muscle to overcome a
spasm, a bit like acupressure.  Recently, eating bananas to supply potassium,
has become a favorite of some professionals.

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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.
