Chiropractic for Muscle Cramps
By Amy Silva
Muscle cramps are a common occurrence and can happen to people at any age, although they tend to be more common as we age. A muscle cramp may occur when you do something as simple as move a certain way or flex a muscle too long. Sometimes it can be slightly uncomfortable but other times it can be painful, depending on the cause. Straining your neck after a jerking movement or even holding your head in a particular position while styling your hair might cause it to cramp. A chiropractor may help in preventing and treating muscle cramps, even if they're due to certain health conditions.
Causes of Muscle Cramps
There are many reasons you may get a muscle cramp, but the cause isn't always known. One cause is dehydration. Drinking adequate amounts of water daily can help prevent muscle cramps, especially if you live an active lifestyle and lose a lot of water from sweating. Other reasons include medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid problems, among others. Cramps in legs may be caused by a nerve being compressed in your spine. Not getting enough of certain minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium might also be a cause.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Muscle Cramps
No matter the cause of muscle cramps, seeking chiropractic care may help ease symptoms and aid in prevention. It's likely a chiropractor can ease the discomfort related to muscle cramps if it's occurring due to a spine issue, such as a nerve being compressed because you have bad posture and are out of alignment. Oftentimes an adjustment made to your spine can ease muscle cramps in your back, neck, shoulders and even legs. Your chiropractor can give you tips to aid in prevention of muscle cramps and how you can treat discomfort or pain at home as well.
Tips for Preventing Muscle Cramps
- Stay hydrated - Drinking enough water is probably the easiest thing you can do to help prevent muscle cramps
- Stretch - Thoroughly stretch prior to exercising or participating in any other physical activity that may cause cramps in your legs or other areas of the body
- Take care of your health - Be sure to properly manage your health, especially if you suffer from diabetes, nerve issues or other health problems that may lead to bothersome muscle cramps
Taking care of yourself is the best way to try to prevent muscle cramps from happening. A chiropractor may provide relief and those at The Joint are open evenings and weekends for your convenience, and no appointment is necessary.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lakewood, Colo.