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Muscle cramps

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Chest stretch
Chest stretch
Groin stretch
Groin stretch
Hamstring stretch
Hamstring stretch
Hip stretch
Hip stretch
Thigh stretch
Thigh stretch
Triceps stretch
Triceps stretch

Alternative Names    Return to top

Cramps - muscle

Definition    Return to top

Muscle cramps are involuntary and often painful contractions (movements) of the muscles.

Considerations    Return to top

Muscle cramps are common and may be stopped by stretching the muscle. The cramping muscle may feel hard or bulging.

Muscle spasms are different than muscle twitches, which are covered in a separate article.

Causes    Return to top

Muscle spasms can cause cramps and are usually brought on by the following:

Home Care    Return to top

Slow stretching often brings relief. If muscle cramps continue, see your doctor.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your doctor if your muscle cramps are severe, last a long time, or keep coming back and do not go away with simple stretching.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

Your health care provider will perform a physical examination and ask questions about your medical history, such as:

Tests that may be done include:

Pain relievers (analgesics) may be prescribed.

References    Return to top

Skorecki K, Ausiello J. Disorders of Sodium and Water Homeostasis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Goldman: Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 117.

Molitoris B. Acute Kidney Injury. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Goldman: Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 121.

Barohn R. Muscle Diseases. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Goldman: Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 447.

Update Date: 7/22/2008

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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