- Drink water: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! This may seem like an obvious recommendation because most people are aware that drinking water is a healthy must, but not everyone realizes that water and proper hydration is a big part of reducing the occurrence of leg cramps. If you are going to participate in vigorous exercise, hydrate well prior to heading out for the run, bike ride or spin class.
- Easing a cramp once it starts: There are multiple ways you can treat an active cramp. Sometimes just moving around or stretching can alleviate the pain and loosen up the cramped muscle. Massaging the muscle may help or applying cold or warm compresses to the affected area. Sometimes sitting in a warm bath with Epsom salts can ease the cramp. Some over-the-counter remedies exist, such as analgesic balms, patches or pain relief medications. Medicines taken for menstrual cramps can help with leg cramps as well.
For typical leg cramps associated with exercise, poor diet or other manageable causes, consider trying the recommendations in this article to manage your symptoms and care for your muscles. Seek input from your local pharmacy for over-the-counter remedies when necessary and speak with a nutritionist or personal trainer to develop lifestyle changes that will keep you healthy and pain-free.
Don’t let these preventable pains cramp your style.