Muscle cramps are sudden and involuntary contractions of one or more of the bodyβs muscles. They often occur at night or at any moment stopped by a sudden Charley horse. These cramps can cause severe pain, making it impossible to move and use the affected muscle/s. They are usually brought on from:
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Muscle cramps are common and can happen to anyone, but often occur to:
Muscle cramps can be a symptom of a variety of medical issues. It is typically dehydration and muscle strain from overworking/exercising the muscles, but it can also be a sign of medical conditions like:
Muscle cramps can make daily activities difficult, if not impossible, to perform. They often happen at night, affecting proper sleep. This can lead to:
This is usually sudden, sharp pain. Individuals can also feel or see a lump of muscle tissue under the skin.
They usually go away on their own, not requiring medical care. However, seek medical attention if the cramps:
Choline is a nutrient that is just as important but not as well known as B vitamins.Β Choline has a fundamental role in muscle physiology, and low levels could be a cause/contributor to muscle cramping. Choline is well-known for its function as part of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This is a chemical messenger that transmits signals between nerve cells and muscles. Acetylcholine is the physiological link that tells the muscles to contract. This is where medications can interfere with the messaging system.
Most believe that muscle cramps are caused by magnesium deficiency. This is true, but magnesium is not the only nutrient that could present muscle issues. Choline regulates intracellular calcium and muscle contraction. This is what helps bind calcium proteins to muscle receptors. Choline keeps minerals like calcium available to the muscles so they can use it instantly when they need to contract. Testing for choline status could be the key for individuals with skeletal muscle issues, which can be muscle cramping, general soreness, or another type of issue.
Home self-care for prevention and relief includes:
American Osteopathic Association. Muscle Cramp. Accessed 12/10/2019.
Merck Manual. Muscle Cramps. Accessed 12/10/2019.
Miller, Timothy M, and Robert B Layzer. βMuscle cramps.βΒ Muscle & nerveΒ vol. 32,4 (2005): 431-42. doi:10.1002/mus.20341
Nutrients, July 202
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