Their muscles are stretched by the athletic trainer. The trainer usually will massage or ice-massage the affected muscle. If we can't get them settled down that way, we will consider IV fluids. That seems to help, but we don't know if it is the hydration or the salt [in the fluids] that is helping. Muscle cramps are common, especially in the warm weather. At games in August or September, we could have anywhere from a couple to a half-dozen players who will cramp significantly.
It is a little daunting to hear that even among professional athletes, muscle cramps are so common.
Yes, they are in tremendous shape, and they are educated about the importance of hydration. Despite all this, when you are working out that hard and that long in extreme environments, it is still going to happen.
What can be done to try to prevent cramps?
Prevention is usually focused on hydration and the importance of maintaining a lot of salt in one's diet to help replace the salt. But I am talking about athletes: the 10K competitor, the marathon runners or athletes who play team sports like football or soccer. If you are less active or have blood-pressure issues or other health issues, you should talk to your doctor.
You also should avoid stimulants or supplements that contain stimulants. Those stimulants may increase the risk of muscle cramps. And this includes caffeine-containing stimulants; many supplements designed to increase your energy may have caffeine in them.
When should someone who suffers from muscle cramps consult a doctor?
If you have recurrent cramps associated with activity whether with extreme temperatures or not, I think a doctor should be consulted. Sometimes muscle cramps can be associated with certain nerve disorders or gland or endocrine problems. So anyone with recurrent cramps, whether associated with exercise or not, should consult with a doctor.
Holly Selby
