Muscle cramping is a common problem encountered by both athletes and non-athletes alike. Cramps are painful, involuntary skeletal muscle contractions. Cramps can be thought of as either non-exercise related or exercise related.
The cause of the non-exercise related cramps can be hormonal, electrolyte or metabolic imbalances, or it may result from long-term medication use. Diagnostic medical testing may be required if cramps are a persistent problem.
Exercise related muscle cramps are much more common than non- exercise related cramps. They typically affect the large muscles of the legs during or immediately after exercise and can last from seconds to a few minutes. These are typically not serious, but result in intense pain and an immediate loss of function. Many sporting athletes will be completely inca- pacitated once a cramp suddenly comes on.
Despite the regularity of cramps, there is little definitive knowledge of the cause of cramps. Traditionally, cramping was believed to be a direct result of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances (including magnesium, potassium and sodium), accumulation of lactic acid, or low cellular energy levels. While these chemical imbalances can increase the risk of cramping, they don’t seem to cause the cramping.
More recent studies suggest the cause of cramps most likely involves hyperactivity of the nerve-muscle connection. During vigorous exercise, the central nervous system begins to fatigue. This fatigue reduces the normal inhibitory activity of the central nervous system. This leads to a hyperactiv- ity of the muscle fibres and ultimately to the sustained, involuntary muscle contraction.
It makes sense that hyperactivity of muscle fibres would be more likely when those muscles fibres are being overloaded. It has been shown that poor flexibility and poor posture are big factors when it comes to cramping. Other influences are improper footwear, poor exercise technique and in- creased body weight. Addressing these factors effectively can greatly reduce your risk of suffering cramps. Other fantastic ways to limit the chances of developing cramps is to complete an active warm up and cool down pre and post exercise and regular static stretching.
Your physiotherapist or exercise physiologist can assist with exercise prescription and advice to address your specific needs and reduce your risk of cramps.Call one of our friendly staff on 03 9716 2250 to book an appointment with a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist.