Muscle cramps - Overview

Alternative Names

Cramps - muscle

Definition of Muscle cramps:

Muscle cramps are involuntary and often painful contractions (movements) of the muscles.

Considerations:

Muscle cramps are common and may be stopped by stretching the muscle. The cramping muscle may feel hard or bulging.

Muscle spasms are different than muscle twitches, which are covered in a separate article.

Common Causes:

Muscle spasms can cause cramps and are usually brought on by the following:

Alcoholism
Dehydration
Heavy exercise
Hypothyroidism
Kidney failure
Medications
Muscle fatigue
Metabolic problems
Pregnancy
Reduced levels of magnesium or calcium in the body

Reviewed last on: 7/22/2008
Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Skorecki K, Ausiello J. Disorders of sodium and water homeostasis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 117.

Molitoris B. Acute kidney injury. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 121.

Barohn R. Muscle diseases. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 447.

Muscle twitching

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