: ''This article is about muscular pain. For the band, see
The Cramps . For the tool, see
Clamp (tool) ''
A is an unpleasant sensation caused by contraction, usually of a
Muscle . It can be caused by cold or overexertion. Illness or poisoning can also cause cramps, particularly in the
Stomach , which is referred to as
Colic if it fits particular characteristics.
There are two basic causes of cramping. One is inadequate
Oxygenation of muscle, and the other is lack of
Water or
Salt . Cramps from poor oxygenation can be improved by rapid deep breathing, as well as stretching the muscle. Cramps from lack of salt and water can be treated by stretching the muscle, and of course drinking water and increasing salt intake. Pounding on the muscle can increase soreness.
Muscle cramps in particular can be treated by applying a soft massage on the cramped muscle, stretching the muscle and applying heat or cold. Heat improves superficial blood circulation and makes muscles more flexible, so some people find that heat is more soothing for muscle cramps than applying ice.
Electrolyte disturbance may cause cramping and
Tetany of muscles, particularly
Hypokalemia (a lack of
Potassium ) and
Hypocalcemia (a lack of
Calcium ).
Menstruation also is highly likely to cause cramps of varying severity in the
Abdomen . Most of this is attributable to the passing of coagulated blood through the
Cervix . Menstrual cramps can be treated with
Ibuprofen , stretching exercises or the application of heat through such means as warm baths or heating pads. Menstrual cramps that do not respond to self-treatment can be a symptom of
Endometriosis or other health problems. A woman experiencing severe cramps should consult a
Gynecologist .
Nocturnal leg cramps are involuntary muscle contractions that occur in the
Calves ,
Soles of the
Feet or other muscles in the body during the night or (less commonly) while resting. The duration of nocturnal leg cramps is highly variable with cramps sometimes only lasting a few seconds and other times several minutes. Soreness in the muscles may remain for some time after the cramp ends. These cramps are more common in older populations but may happen to anyone.
The precise cause of these cramps is unclear. Potential contributing factors are believed to include low levels of certain minerals (
Magnesium ,
Potassium ,
Calcium and
Sodium ),
Dehydration and prolonged sitting. Less common causes include more serious conditions or use of drugs.
Nocturnal leg cramps should not be confused with
Restless Legs Syndrome , a crawling sensation that is relieved by walking or moving around. Although uncomfortable, restless legs syndrome typically does not involve cramping or pain.
Smooth Muscle contractions lie at the heart of the cramping (or colicky) pain of internal organs. These include the
Intestine ,
Uterus , ureter (in kidney stone pain) and various others.
