Learn To Treat Muscle Cramps At Home

Muscle cramps are involuntary spasms or contractions of the muscles. They are usually very painful and can last from a few seconds to several minutes. It is possible to have more than one muscle cramp at the same time. What can you do to treat muscle cramps yourself?

You can get cramps in almost any muscle. The most common muscles that suffer from cramps are the muscles in:

• the calves
• thigh bone
• feet
• hands
• neck
• belly

In this article we will talk about muscle cramps, their causes, symptoms, prevention and some really useful tips to treat muscle cramps.

Causes of muscle cramps

Muscle cramps are caused by the hyperexcitability of the nerves that stimulate the muscle. This in turn is caused by:

• Vigorous physical activity: The cramp can occur both during and after physical exertion.
• Dehydration : A major cause in the elderly and those taking diuretics.
• Pregnancy: Generally, these cramps are caused by low magnesium levels.
• Electrolytic Conditions:  Mainly deficiency of calcium and magnesium.
• Bone fracture: As protection, the muscles surrounding the injury contract involuntarily.
• Metabolism changes such as in diabetes, hyperthyroidism, alcoholism and hypoglycemia.
• Venous insufficiency and varicose veins in the legs.
• Neurological disorders such as: Parkinson’s, motor neuron disease or primary muscle diseases (myopathies).

• Long periods of inactivity (for example, sitting in a bad position).

Prevent muscle cramps

To avoid muscle cramps, you should always do enough stretching exercises before and after any physical exertion. This is especially true if you have a pretty sedentary lifestyle.

It’s also important to make sure that you stay well hydrated before, during and after exercise and that you don’t exercise on very hot days.

Many people suffer from nocturnal muscle cramps, mainly in the legs and feet. These are also called nocturnal idiopathic cramps. Normally, these people have a family history of cramps and it is currently unknown what causes them.

If you suffer from these cramps, we recommend that you:

• Do some stretching exercises 15 minutes before going to bed.
• Choose foods rich in calcium and magnesium.
• Stay well hydrated throughout the day.
• Stay active.

Practical advice to treat muscle cramps if you get them

Stretching is the best way to prevent cramps, especially leg cramps. However, it is important to point out that this will not make a difference overnight.

You should have done stretching exercises every day for several weeks so that the muscle gains more resistance to involuntary contractions.

Frequent stretching and proper hydration often solve things for most people who suffer from muscle cramps.

The best way to determine how hydrated you are is to look at the color of your urine.

• If you are very dehydrated, it will have a strong yellow color and a strong odor.
• On the other hand, if you are well hydrated, your urine will be clear and odorless.

Natural remedies and advice to treat muscle cramps

Potassium

Good levels of potassium in the body help treat and prevent muscle cramps. Fruits such as kiwis and bananas are particularly rich in this mineral. They are an excellent preventative remedy and also aid in recovery.

What do you have to do then?

• Eat a banana before exercising.
• Drink a banana smoothie.

apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an excellent remedy for muscle pain as it promotes circulation and is a toner. It can be applied externally.

Ingredients

• 30 ml or 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

How to use

• Apply it to the area where you have regular cramps.
• A few light massages should then be sufficient.
• Then let it dry.

Arnica

Arnica flowers are used to treat bruises, arthritis pain and stiff limbs. It is possible to make an infusion with these flowers, soak a cloth in the infusion and apply it to the affected area.

Ingredients

• 15 grams or 1 tablespoon of arnica flowers
• 250 ml or 1 cup of water

Preparation

• First, pour the cup of water into a pan and add the arnica flowers.
• Bring the water to a boil and then turn off the heat.
• Let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes and then pour it into a cup and drink it.
• Another option is to use a cloth soaked in the infusion.

Try massages

You can relieve the pain by rubbing the affected area in a light circular motion. There are also anti-inflammatory and analgesic ointments and ointments that athletes use. These help to:

• reduce the pain
• relax your muscles
• improve blood circulation

How to use

• Apply massages to the affected area using light circular motions.