What is a Muscle Cramp?

A cramp is an involuntary, painful contraction of the muscles. Muscle twitching, also called fasciculation is the result of spontaneous local muscle contractions that are involuntary. The muscle cramp usually only affects the individual muscle groups connected to a particular motor neuron.
 

What Causes Muscle Cramp?

A cramp is caused by a sudden involuntary contraction of a muscle or muscles. Often there is no obvious cause, but it may occur with over exertion or chilling of the muscles, as for example when swimming. It is uncommon for cramp to be due to a serious underlying disorder. In most cases, the cramp goes away within a few minutes.


Some Common Causes are:

1. Muscle fatigue
2. Heavy exercise
3. Dehydration
4. Pregnancy
5. Heat Cramps

Some Rare Causes are:

1. Drugs such as lithium
2. Alcohol
3. Inflammatory
4. Tetanus

What do you do if you have a Muscle Cramp

If you have a muscle cramp, try to stretch and then relax the affected muscle. Massaging or applying a hot towel to the area. mat also help. Visit your doctor if home remedies fail to help and if you have frequent or severe episodes of cramp.

How are muscle cramps treated?

Pain relievers and muscle relaxers may be prescribed by your doctor.