Muscle Cramp

As a physiotherapist, I've seen many clients experiencing muscle cramps and wondering why they keep having them. Most people associate muscle cramps with dehydration, salt, and electrolyte depletion, which is true to certain extreme conditions, especially for individuals highly active in sports and exercise. However, many people who come to our clinic are not athletes or even remotely as weekend warriors. So, what could be causing persistent muscle cramps among individuals who seem to have adequate hydration levels and electrolyte balance?

In most cases, muscle cramps occur in the middle of the night during sleep or early in the morning. Through experience and research, we've noticed that this condition is closely related to disruptions in blood circulation. When we sleep, our heart rate is slower, and the environment is colder, causing capillaries to contract and affect blood flow to various areas of the body.

Capillaries are smaller blood vessels found in various regions of the body, including ligaments, tendons, and muscles. They supply blood, oxygen, and essential nutrients while simultaneously eliminating waste from the body. When these areas are exposed to cold temperatures, the capillaries contract, reducing blood supply to the area, which causes tingling, numbness, and cramps. Individuals with diabetes are more prone to this condition because high glucose levels can further exacerbate poor blood circulation.

As clinicians, it's essential to understand that muscle cramps do not only occur due to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances but are the result of factors like poor blood circulation. In such cases, it's imperative to diagnose and solve the root cause of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms.

Most problem of muscle cramping can be solved when we release the affected muscles and restore its circulation. Find out how we can help you by scheduling a free consultation with us.