If you feel it coming on, try and stretch out the affected muscle. Stretch it gently yet firmly, gradually increase the strain until you feel the muscle stretch (not tear), and then hold that position for a slow count to 10. Relax the muscle and repeat until it feels like the cramp has passed. Be careful not to overdo it and tear the muscling by bouncing or forcing it. Note that the cramp may sort of come and go, for a short time, and you may need to repeat this process again if it comes back.

Proper hydration and stretching before exercising can help prevent this from happening. Also, remembering to warm and up before exercising and cool down after exertion will reduce your risk of cramping.

If it is a common problem, increasing your intake of water, calcium, magnesium and potassium might help prevent them.
Source(s):
http://www.medicinenet.com/muscle_cramps/index.htm
http://www.thestretchinghandbook.com/archives/muscle-cramp.php

Permalink | Report