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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Medical Symptoms > Muscle Cramp: Prevention & Expectations
      Category : Health Centers > Bones, Joints, and Muscles

Muscle Cramp

Alternate Names : Muscle Spasm, Charley Horse

Muscle Cramp | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Stretching the calf and other leg muscles improves flexibility. This reduces the risk of cramps. Individuals who get nighttime calf cramps should:

  • sleep on their sides
  • sleep with their toes pointed
  • not tuck in their blankets and sheets too tightly. This can bend the toes down and cause a cramp.
  • eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables to reduce the risk of mineral deficiencies.
  • drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise to prevent dehydration, especially during hot weather
  • wear comfortable shoes with good arch support to helps prevent cramps
  • In the past, salt tablets were recommended to prevent muscle cramps. However, salt tablets are not useful and should be avoided.


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    Muscle Cramp: Diagnosis & Tests

     

    Muscle Cramp: Treatment & Monitoring

    Author: Minot Cleveland, MD
    Reviewer: Adam Brochert, MD
    Date Reviewed: 09/19/01



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