WHAT CAUSES MUSCLE CRAMPS?

There are over six hundred muscles in the human body, divided into three main groups; skeletal, cardiac and smooth. When we talk about muscle cramps, we usually refer to skeletal muscle tissues. These muscles work with your bones, tendons and ligaments. Unlike the other groups of muscles, skeletal muscles are the ones you control voluntarily, unless of course, you are experiencing an unwanted spontaneous cramp.

What Are Muscle Cramps?

Muscle cramps can come on suddenly and unexpectedly. They are involuntary contractions or spams of one or more muscles, most often occurring, but not limited to the legs and the arms. The duration of muscle cramps can last from a few seconds to several minutes and can be quite painful. Some  people deal with this pain on a regular basis which can become quote debilitating. 

What Causes Muscle Cramps?

There are many possible reasons why people experience muscle cramps. Some of the most common explanations are:

  • Overused or strained muscles
  • Dehydration
  • Mineral depletion
  • Poor blood circulation
  • Pregnancy

Although most muscle cramps are harmless, some may be signs of other underlying medical issues such as diabetes and nerve, liver or thyroid disorders. 

How Can I Prevent Muscle Cramps?

Finding the cause of your muscle cramps, if possible, will help you determine which treatment will be the most beneficial. For some, however, the cause might remain unknown. Regardless, there are some steps you can take to prevent or decrease the frequency of muscle cramps. 

Stretching – Warming up before and gentle stretching after exercising is always a good idea and can prevent muscle soreness. 

Hydrating – Our bodies need a lot of water to function optimally. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces per day. (For example, a person weighing 150 lbs would need to drink 75 ounces of water per day.)

Replenishing – Magnesium in crucial in supporting the muscular and nervous systems. Many people do not have sufficient amounts of this mineral which is why supplements like the RLS-H Formula is essential in relieving muscles cramps.