Muscle Cramps

Presented by:
Macabuhay, Kissha Cassandra
Mercado, Rachel Ann
Modeloso, Mathew James
Sudario, Edaine Ysabelle
(BSCE-1A)
 MAIN OBJECTIVES:
• Causes of muscle cramps
• Risk factors of muscle cramps
• Treatment for muscle cramps
• Prevention of muscle cramps.
WHAT IS A MUSCLE CRAMP?

Muscle cramp is the tightening of one or more muscles

that occurs suddenly and unexpectedly. Exercising or
working hard, particularly in hot weather, can cause
muscle cramps.
 CAUSES OF
MUSCLE CRAMPS
1. INSUFFICIENT BLOOD FLOW
• During exercise, narrowing the arteries that supply blood to the legs
can cause cramping pain in the legs and feet.
2. COMPRESSION OF THE NERVES
• Cramping pain in the legs can also be caused by pressure on the
nerves in the spine.
3. INSUFFICIENT MINERALS
• Leg cramps can be caused by a lack of potassium, calcium, or
magnesium in the diet.
4. AGING
• As you get older, these changes can lead to more frequent muscle
cramp
5. PREGNANCY
• Leg cramps occur in pregnant women as a result of low electrolyte
levels, and changes in circulation.
 6. DEHYDRATION
• Your body will have a hard time functioning normally if you don’t
receive the water required.
 7. EXERCISING IN INTENSE HEAT
• Muscle cramps are more likely to occur when you exercise in hot
weather because sweat drains the fluid and minerals out of your body.
RISKS FACTORS OF
MUSCLE CRAMPS
1. AGE
• Muscle mass declines as people age. The muscles can’t work as hard
and become stressed more easily as a result.
2. INADEQUATE CONDITIONING
• Muscles tire more easily when they are not in shape for an activity.
3. SWEATING PROFUSELY
• Athletes who become tired and sweat profusely while participating in sports
in hot weather are prone to muscle cramps.
4. MEDICAL PROBLEM
• Illnesses affecting the nerves or liver can increase the risk of
muscle cramps
5. WEIGHT
• Obesity can increase the likelihood of muscle cramps.
TREATMENT FOR
MUSCLE CRAMPS
1. STRETCH THE AFFECTED AREA
2. PUT AN ICE PACK
3. STAND UP AND WALK AROUND
4. TAKE PAINKILLERS
5. MASSAGE THE AFFECTED AREA WITH YOUR
HANDS OR A MASSAGE ROLLER
PREVENTION OF
MUSCLE CRAMPS
1. STAY HYDRATED
• Stay hydrated especially during physical activity, because
dehydration can cause cramps.
2. MAINTAIN HEALTHY DIET
• A healthy diet is essential for good health and nutrition. It protects
you against many chronic non-communicable diseases, such as
heart disease, diabetes and cancer.
3. STRETCH
• Stretching before and after exercise on a regular basis to help
prevent muscle cramps.
4. EXERCISE
• Physical activities gradually allow your muscles to adapt
and reduce your risk of cramping.
5. AVOID OVEREXERTION
• Don’t overwork your muscles, especially if you’re not used to
doing so.