Muscle Cramps

Introduction

Muscle cramps are mostly idiopathic, commonly affecting the calf muscles and/or foot. Muscle cramps are usually short-lived and self-limited, but may be results from varieties of serious systematic disorders. Physical examination and review of medical history can rather quickly and simply rule out cramps caused by pathologies. Passive and/or active stretching of the affected muscle(s) is by far the most effective and safest non-pharmacology management for most acute idiopathic muscle cramps.

Definition

A muscle cramp is a sudden, involuntary, painful muscle contraction or spasm, associated with an increase in frequency of motor action potentials and can have persistent muscle soreness and swelling with a variable rate of improvement, often terminated by stretching.

Etiology

• Idiopathic
• Pregnancy
• Strenuous exercise
• Haemodialysis
• Cirrhosis
• Metabolic or electrolyte disturbances
• Other chronic diseases

Resources

Muscle cramps