Muscle cramps occur when the muscles tense, harden and tighten painfully. Muscle cramps can happen all over the body but most often strike the hamstrings, quadriceps and the calf area. Muscle cramps are related to physical activity and are very common in athletes who participate in vigorous exercise and training. Athletes who compete in endurance competitions like marathons or triathlons are particularly at risk.
Exercise and Muscle Cramps
Most muscle cramps strike due to an injury or overuse of the muscle. Muscle cramps can also be a sign of insufficient minerals, including potassium or calcium. Being dehydrated can also cause muscle cramps in athletes after heavy sweating from an intense workout.
Health Conditions and Muscle Cramps
Even in physically fit athletes, health problems may strike and cause muscle cramps as symptoms. Abusing alcohol may cause muscles to cramp, as can some medication side effects. Problems with metabolism, having an underactive thyroid or kidney failure can also result in muscle cramps. Female athletes who are pregnant may experience muscle cramps due to the pregnancy.
Preventing Muscle Cramps
Though athletes are typically very physically fit, you can still overdo it on exercise if you're training very hard or pushing yourself to improve. Take care to rest muscles and avoid injury and overuse, and remember to stretch before and after workouts. Always drink plenty of fluids to stay well hydrated. Adjust your diet so that it includes a variety of essential nutrients, particularly potassium -- bananas are an excellent source -- and calcium through dairy products.
Alleviating Muscle Cramps
When a painful muscle cramp stops you in your tracks, take a break. Gently and slowly try to stretch the muscle until it relaxes, and lightly massage the muscle. Try to apply heat while the muscle is cramping. After the cramping has subsided, ice the muscle. Take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug to ease pain. Drink water at the first sign of muscle cramps, and try salt tablets if water doesn't provide any relief.
