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February 10, 2012

Muscle Cramps Symptoms

Symptom Checker: Symptoms & Signs Index


Terms related to Muscle Cramps:

  • Cramps, Muscle
  • Leg Cramps

A muscle cramp is an involuntarily and forcibly contracted muscle that does not relax. When we use the muscles that can voluntarily be controlled, such as those of our arms and legs, they alternately contract and relax as we move our limbs. Muscles that support our head, neck, and trunk contract similarly in a synchronized fashion to maintain our posture. A muscle (or even a few fibers of a muscle) that involuntarily (without consciously willing it) contracts is called a "spasm." If the spasm is forceful and sustained, it becomes a cramp.

Main Articles on Muscle Cramps
Causes of Muscle Cramps
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    • Dehydration Dehydration is the excessive loss of body water. There are a number of causes of dehydration including heat exposure, prolonged...learn more »
    • Muscle Cramps Muscle cramps are involuntarily and forcibly contracted muscles that do not relax. Extremely common, any muscles that have...learn more »
    • Peripheral Neuropathy Peripheral neuropathy is a problem with the functioning of the nerves outside of the spinal cord. Symptoms may include numbness,...learn more »
    • Restless Leg Syndrome Restless leg syndrome (RLS or restless legs syndrome) is a common cause for painful legs that typically eases with motion, and...learn more »
    • Shin Splints Shin splints result from inflammation from injury to the tendon and adjacent tissues in the front of the outer leg. Shin splints...learn more »
    • Tetanus Tetanus is an often-fatal disease caused by nerve toxins produced by the common bacteria Clostridium tetani. In a seven-day...learn more »
Other Causes of Muscle Cramps
Examples of Medications for Muscle Cramps


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