Cramps are caused when any part of a muscle, a group of muscles or an entire muscle experiences a prolonged, forced or involuntary contraction.  Cramps are stronger and last longer than muscle spasms.  Muscles normally enable movement by relaxing and contracting, and the muscles required for fine or gross motor movements are mainly voluntary muscles.

However, the voluntary muscles may experience a more prolonged contraction rather than periods of relaxation.  They can move involuntarily instead of relaxing and contracting for short intervals.  When this happens and your muscles contract for long time periods, you can end up with an exhausting and painful muscle cramp. Unfortunately, muscles cramps can often occur on a frequent basis.

This can be a particularly troublesome condition if you are unable to perform your job properly because of continuous or painful muscle contractions. Professionals who are more likely to suffer from muscle problems include office workers who normally remain seated for long periods, construction workers and athletes.  Muscle cramps can greatly affect their job productivity.

Problems Associated with Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps can also cause tingling, muscle itch, tics, paresthesia and paralysis. In addition, other possible symptoms that accompany muscle cramps include dry mouth, pericardial effusion, disorientation, rapid heartbeat or regurgitation. Various parts of your body can be affected by muscle cramps from your ankles to your neck.  This is why it is often difficult to locate the specific area of the original problem that caused the cramps.

Cause of Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps can be caused by an injury to the muscle, a loss of salt, a muscle spasm, an imbalance of electrolytes, exercise or over exertion when performing certain activities or tasks or excessive sweating.  Other possible causes of muscle cramps include certain bacterial or viral infections, circulation problems, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatomyositis, thyroid disease or diabetes.

Treatment for Muscle Cramps

Doctors normally prescribe muscle relaxants such as Soma, skelaxin or cyclobezaprine for individuals who are suffering from muscle spasms.  Home remedies such as apple cider vinegar or remediation to pressure points, massage or performing relaxation exercises may also alleviate muscle cramps.  You can also prevent muscle cramps by eating nutrient rich food such as vitamin C, protein, calcium and magnesium.