Muscle cramps can be a very painful condition. They often occur randomly with little warning and can cause severe pain. Although muscle cramps are usually short-lived, they can indicate the presence of an underlying condition. Dehydration is a very common cause of muscle cramps. This article will discuss more about what causes muscle cramps and how to avoid getting them. If you’re suffering from muscle pain or frequent muscle cramping, walk into AFC Urgent Care Back Bay. Our Boston clinic offers same-day injury diagnosis and treatment with short wait times. We are open 7 days a week, simply walk in when it’s convenient for you or schedule your visit online.
What Is a Muscle Cramp?
Our muscles are made up of a web of muscle fibers. These fibrous strands weave together to build our muscle structure. Our muscles are vital to our bodies. They support our bones and allow us to move our bodies. However, when our muscles become over-stressed or injured, it can lead to the rapid contraction or even spasm of the fibers which is known as a muscle cramp.
Muscle cramps can occur anywhere on the body, however, are most common in big muscles such as your legs or arms. They are usually nothing to worry about and will go away on their own quickly, however, if your muscles seem to be experiencing cramps often, or you cannot seem to stop your muscles from cramping, it may indicate an injury that requires medical care.
Causes of Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps can occur due to a wide range of circumstances. Sometimes, it may seem like your muscles are cramping randomly. This is because overworking your muscles too quickly can cause them to seize up and cramp. Overusing your muscles by lifting too much weight or working out too hard can also cause your muscles to contract into a cramp. Dehydration is a very common cause of muscle cramping and can lead to random muscle cramps throughout the day or even in the middle of the night. Our bodies require water to repair themselves, making it vital to drink enough before, during, and after your workouts.
If you’re experiencing regular muscle cramps in a specific area such as around a joint or in the middle of a large muscle, it may indicate that you have injured the muscle. This can happen if you overwork your muscles or through exercises that require you to switch directions or move very suddenly. If your muscle is repeatedly cramping and you are experiencing discomfort or pain in the affected area, you should seek medical care for an evaluation.
How to Prevent Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps are a very common condition that can affect anyone of any age and any activity level. The best way to prevent muscle cramps from occurring is to stay well-hydrated and well-fueled with electrolytes if you plan on working out or being physically active in any way. Similarly, remembering to stretch out your muscles before and after a workout can help prevent them from seizing up. If you do experience muscle pain or soreness, don’t push your body too hard too fast as this could lead to an injury. Always listen to your body and seek medical care if you are worried about repetitive muscle cramping or muscle pain.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Back Bay for Walk-In Injury Care in Boston, MA
At AFC Urgent Care Back Bay we are equipped to provide our patients with rapid same-day injury care without the long wait times associated with the ER. Our clinic is conveniently located in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood and accepts walk-in patients. We have a digital X-ray suite to provide more accurate injury diagnosis services for patients of all ages. If you’re experiencing muscle pain or frequent muscle cramping, don’t delay seeking medical care. Walk into AFC Urgent Care Back Bay, we are open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm.
