An Apple a Day
Doctor and Olympic pro snowboarder, Dr Gary Bartlett talks tackling muscle cramps
• Words: Dr Gary Luke Bartlett
An Apple a Day
WHAT ARE MUSCLE CRAMPS?
Muscle cramps are a very common condition. They are essentially a spasmodic (spasmlike) involuntary contraction of skeletal muscle, which is often very painful. Sufferers complain of a severe tightening and contraction of the affected muscles. Though typically lasting less than 10 minutes, cramp can be extremely debilitating.
Up to 60 per cent of adults have reported muscle cramp. Certain groups are at an increased risk. These include:
• Athletes
• Those who undertake intense regular exercise
• Pregnant women
• Children
• The elderly
• Those with an underlying medical condition, such as an underactive thyroid or cardiovascular disease
• Those working in hot conditions, for example, firemen Cramp typically affects the muscles in the legs, specifically those in the thighs, calf and foot. Saying that, cramp can occur during many different forms of sport and exercise, and affect areas relating to the sport; it’s most likely to affect those participating in endurance sports.