Muscle cramps: our tips

What is a muscle cramp?¹

A muscle cramp is a painful and temporary involuntary contraction of a muscle or group of muscles: the affected area suddenly becomes stiff and painful.

Muscle cramps are a common but generally harmless issue, more frequently affecting athletes, pregnant women, or older adults.

When and how does a cramp occur? ¹

It can occur at any time and often without any apparent reason. It usually happens in the calf muscles but can affect any part of the leg, including the feet, thighs, or hands. Although a cramp can occur at any moment, three out of four cases happen during the night.

Tips for dealing with muscle cramps ²

When a cramp occurs, it is usually enough to stretch the muscle or wait a few minutes to regain normal sensation. However, the muscle may remain sensitive for several hours afterward. That’s why it is recommended to rehydrate by drinking plenty of water. If the muscle pain persists, you can consider medication upon your doctor’s advice.

How to prevent cramps? ^2;3

Although cramps often have no specific cause, certain factors can influence them, such as dehydration, intense physical activity, or certain medical conditions that may require special care.

• Tips to reduce the risk of cramps:
• Stay well hydrated
• Warm up your muscles before exercising and don’t forget to stretch afterward
• Keep your legs active during the day to help reduce the frequency of cramp episodes

Consult your doctor if muscle cramps don’t go away within a few minutes or if they occur repeatedly without a clear cause. It is also recommended to see your doctor if the pain persists and/or prevents you from walking normally the next day.