How to get rid of muscle cramps fast – Carnevalestoricocivitonico

At one point or another, we’ve all experienced the unexpected, intense pain of one muscle cramp.

Muscle cramps, also known as muscle spasms or charley horses, is involuntary contraction of muscle fibers, says Dr. Lucas Buchlera sports medicine and orthopedic surgery physician at Northwestern Medicine. The pain from these contractions can cause mobility limitations and a tight feeling in the muscle, he says.

Although usually harmless, muscle cramps are undoubtedly uncomfortable. The good news is that there are some tried and true steps you can take find quick relief. Here’s what experts need to know about muscle cramps.

What are muscle cramps?

Muscle cramps, even if they are temporary, can cause a feeling of intense pain and discomfort. They are often experienced in the legs, although technically they can occur anywhere in the body, says Dr. Holly Benjaminprofessor of orthopedic surgery and sports medicine specialist at the University of Chicago.

While muscle spasms can cause muscle pain, not all muscle pain is the result of muscle spasms, Buchler distinguishes. Muscle cramps occur “when there is spasm or sustained involuntary muscle contraction,” he says.

Muscle cramps can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as an electrolyte imbalance, poor blood flow or dehydrationsays Benjamin. Muscle cramps can also potentially be due to a nerve problem (such as nerve compression), working out in the heatlack of stretching, muscle fatigue, body stress, medication side effects or excessive alcohol use, she says.

Most muscle cramps subside within seconds to minutesalthough soreness related to cramps can sometimes last hours to days, according to the Mayo Clinic.

How to quickly stop muscle cramps

“The most reliable way to quickly resolve a muscle cramp is with gentle stretching to help the muscle relax,” says Buchler. Massage and apply heat or ice to the site of the cramp can help provide quick relief, advises Benjamin.

OTC pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen, can also help relieve pain from muscle cramps. “In rare cases, your doctor may prescribe a muscle relaxant,” says Benjamin.

If the muscle cramps are the result of a electrolyte imbalance and/or dehydration, “correcting the underlying problem will be helpful, but it will take some time to make an impact,” notes Buchler.

Can you prevent muscle cramps?

Muscle cramps aren’t always preventable, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing them, says Buchler. It’s important to stay hydrated and maintain an appropriate electrolyte balance, he says.

When it comes to exercisingmake sure to add warm-ups with stretching, followed by cool-downs, suggests Benjamin. You should also “avoid excessive exercise in the heat,” she says.

While “most muscle cramps are benign and not worrisome,” if they start to become frequent or severe, you should seek medical attention, Benjamin says. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of your muscle cramps and tailor a treatment individualized treatment to relieve symptoms.

What are muscle cramps?

How to quickly stop muscle cramps

Can you prevent muscle cramps?

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