what causes muscle cramps and spasms and how do i prevent them?

Answer 1

Cramps. That's a bit vague. Do you mean soreness after exercise? Or do you mean when the muscle stays in contraction without effort? (Which is actually a spasm)

If you mean soreness, then that is because every time you contract a muscle, it thickens and stretches the epimyceum, the layer of connective tissue that surrounds the muscle. This is the only part of the muscle that has pain fibers. he more you contract it, either by intensity or prolonged use, it tears the epimyceum. If you are trying to improve performance/strength, you cannot prevent this from happening as it is part of the normal growth cycle when strengthening a muscle group. You can only prevent it by not improving your performance.

Uninitiated contraction/spasm is due to an electrolyte imbalance. Either your intake of electrolytes is low, you flushed them out by drinking too much water or profuse sweating, or there is excessive lactic acid causing an change in the membrane potential. Electrolytes (potassiom, sodium, calcium, etc...) are necessary for maintaining membrane potential, which when depolarized activates nerves and muscles. You can prevent spasms by being properly hydrated and having plenty of electrolytes in your body.

Answer 2

Take extra magnesium supplements. Calcium causes muscles to contract, magnesium allows them to relax. Muscles work in pairs, with one tight and the other loose. Sometimes muscles stay stressed and tight instead of releasing like they should.

Answer 3

yes, have your potassium checked at the doctors office and if it ok he can give you a prescription of quinine that will stop the cramping.

Answer 4

need more potassium
Eat bananas

Answer 5

dehydration

Answer 6

DYABETIS IS ONE SOURCE