Muscle spasms and cramps

Hello again.

I would like to treat this apparently simple topic because it is very common. Being muscle tissue abundant on our body, it has the potential to cramp and spasm and produce pain.



I would like to remind you again that we should not see pain as our enemy, but rather as a way that our body tells us that something is wrong. Some examples of this "something is wrong" are muscle cramps ( specially in calves ) due to low potassium or low magnesium in blood. They can also tell us that, for example if we develop back pain, our body position and mechanics could be off ( read about the Alexander techniques that, by improving and overcoming some physical habits, helps on physical illnesses ), or even it could tell us that we have got too much of a curvature in the spine ( scoliosis ) or tell us about a short leg syndrome.

What do we do?

Well, first of all RELAX. You need to release some of that body stiffness you have as a baseline, so breath in deep and RELAX ( take a look at what happens when you purposely relax your neck and shoulder areas and keep them relaxed for at least a minute ). Daily stretches help a lot to prepare the muscles for regular activity.

Next, you can always get a good massage. Applying HOT packs or compresses and pressure to the area is good ( Please remember that ice is great for the first 48 to 72 hours after a crash or trauma or any acute event, but later it NEEDS to be replaced by heat ).

Also, you can use muscle rubs to help relax the area. My personal favorites are the ones that have Arnica, a homeopathic product, and are widely availiable on pharmacies and health food stores. Some of these creams also use Bryonia, another homeopathic product. Arnica is also availiable in homeopathic pillules and is great for muscle pain.

Do consider visiting your local osteopath ( DO ) or your local chiropractor should your pain continues.

Finally, you can always go to the medical doctor for evaluation and assesment. Here the doctor might send you for images ( x rays only "see" fractures, MRI's are very expensive but they might see tendons, ligaments and even muscle tears )and/or might treat you with anti inflammatories, muscle relaxants or narcotic pain medications.

Until next time