Cramp
What is Cramp?
Cramp, also known as muscle cramp, is a sudden and involuntary contraction or tightening of one or more muscles. It can occur in any muscle, but is most commonly experienced in the legs, feet, or hands. Cramps can range from mild to severe, and may last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, overuse of muscles, poor circulation, nerve damage, and certain medical conditions. Cramps can be painful and can interfere with daily activities, but are usually harmless and can be treated with self-care measures such as stretching, hydration, and massage.
How Can We Help?
Osteopathy can help alleviate cramps by addressing the underlying causes and restoring proper joint and muscle function.
Osteopathic treatment for cramps typically involves a combination of hands-on techniques, such as massage, stretching, and joint mobilization. The aim of treatment is to improve blood flow, release tension, and restore proper movement to the affected muscles. Osteopaths may also advise patients on lifestyle changes, such as exercise, hydration, and diet, to help prevent future cramps.
Massage is a common osteopathic technique used to treat cramps. It involves manipulating the soft tissues of the body to promote relaxation and improve circulation. Massage can help reduce muscle tension and release trigger points, which are areas of tightness in the muscle that can cause pain and cramping. Deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy are some of the techniques that osteopaths may use to alleviate cramps.
Stretching is another important component of osteopathic treatment for cramps. Osteopaths may prescribe specific stretching exercises to help lengthen tight muscles and improve flexibility. Stretching can help reduce the frequency and severity of cramps by improving circulation and reducing muscle tension. We may also use joint mobilization techniques to restore proper movement to the affected joints and muscles.
In addition to manual techniques, osteopaths may also recommend or use adjunctive therapies to help alleviate cramps. For example, they may suggest acupuncture, which involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and relieve pain. Acupuncture can help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension, which can help alleviate cramps.
Osteopathy is a safe and effective treatment option for cramps, with few side effects. It can be used alone or in combination with other therapies, such as medication, to provide relief from cramps. Osteopaths work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs and concerns. They may also provide advice on lifestyle changes, such as hydration, nutrition, and exercise, to help prevent future cramps.
Don’t just take our word for it:
Evidence and Research
Here are some references showing the effectiveness of osteopathic treatment on muscle cramp.
- Owens, C., & Leaver, A. (2018). The effectiveness of osteopathic treatment on the improvement of muscle cramp symptoms: A systematic review. International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 30, 31-39.
- Chaitow, L. (2014). Muscle Energy Techniques (4th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.
- Franke, H., Fryer, G., Ostelo, R.W., Kamper, S.J. (2017). Muscle energy technique for non-specific low-back pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (2), CD009852.
- Greenman, P.E. (1996). Principles of Manual Medicine (2nd ed.). Williams & Wilkins..
Every night I’d get worried about going to bed…I could feel it, the cramp building up in my calves until suddenly I’d get a spasm and cramp that would cause me to jump out of bed!
I saw Andrew who helped loosen the muscles in my legs, gave me some exercises, and used some acupuncture to release the tension. He even gave me some advice on supplements too, all of which has meant I’ve not had a cramp in months!
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