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Cramps
Cramps are
extremely common. Almost everyone (one estimate is about
95%) experiences a cramp at some time in their life. Cramps
are common in adults and become increasingly frequent with
aging. However, children also experience cramps.
Any of the
muscles that are under our voluntary control (skeletal
muscles) can cramp. Cramps of the extremities, especially
the legs and feet, and most particularly the calf (the
classic "charley horse"), are very common. Involuntary
muscles of the various organs (uterus, blood vessel wall,
intestinal tract, bile and urine passages, bronchial tree,
etc.) are also subject to cramps.
The most commonly affected muscle groups are:
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Back of
lower leg/calf (gastrocnemius).
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Back of
thigh (hamstrings).
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Front of
thigh (quadriceps).
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Feet, hands,
arms, abdomen
Causes:
it is related to poor
flexibility, muscle fatigue or doing new activity. Other
factors associated with muscle cramps include exercising in
extreme heat, dehydration and electrolyte depletion. Cramps
are more common during exercise in the heat because sweat
contains fluids as well as electrolyte (salt, potassium,
magnesium and calcium).
Primary prevention:
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Improve
fitness and avoid muscle fatigue
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Stretch
regularly after exercise - Warm up before exercise
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Stretch
the calf muscle: In a standing lunge with both feet
pointed forward, straighten the rear leg.
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Stretch
the hamstring muscle: Sit with one leg folded in and the
other straight out, foot upright and toes and ankle
relaxed. Lean forward slightly, touch foot of straightened
leg. (Repeat with opposite leg.)
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Stretch
the Quadriceps muscle: While standing, hold top of foot
with opposite hand and gently pull heel toward buttocks.
(Repeat with opposite leg.)
Healing Options
Ayurvedic
Supplements |
- Mahanarayan
oil
- Arth plus
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Sinhanad guggulu
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Rumarhto
Gold
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| Diet |
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The patients
should not be given foods that aggravate Vayu.
Pulses are bad for such patients. Cold, dry,
pungent and astringent food items are bad for
such patients. Sweet and sour things can be
given to the patients in good quantity. Garlic,
patola as vegetables are very useful.
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| Lifestyle |
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Patients should
resort to regular massage and exercise. He
should not expose himself to cold wind or rain.
Fasting, exercises in excess of one's own
strength, remaining awake at night, suppression
of natural urges, worry, anxiety and anger are
some of the important causes of aggravation of
Vayu, and they should be discourages. Patients
should not sleep during daytime.
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Yoga |
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