How to treat muscle cramps

A painful muscle cramp can bring a jogger to his knees or elicit a yelp of discomfort from just turning over in bed. Studies show that 95% of people will experience the sudden, sharp pain associated with a muscle cramp.

Cramps and spasms can affect any muscle, but they are most common in the calves, hamstrings and quadriceps. Less common are cramps in the feet, hands and lower back.

Causes of muscle cramps include inadequate stretching, muscle fatigue, stress, and depletion of electrolytes through excess sweating or dehydration. Certain diuretic medications can also cause cramping.

We have developed several suggestions to help combat painful cramps:

1. Stretch before and after exercise, and before you go to bed.
2. Avoid dehydration, drink 8 glasses of water per day
3. Eliminate sugar and caffeine and increase consumption of fiber and protein.
4. Eat potassium rich foods; bananas, avocados, lima beans and fish.
5. Improve your posture and avoid prolonged sitting.
6. Avoid excess sodium 

                  Hope this helps !  Dr Smith - Chiropractor