Osteopathy for Muscle Cramps in Surrey

Cramps are an involuntary, short-term episode of pain when a muscle goes into a spasm and usually lasts no more than ten minutes.

This is often quite painful and can reoccur within a few minutes or hours if the cause is not dealt with.

Most muscle cramps can be relieved by stretching the affected muscle for a few seconds and will then usually be fine after that.

The exact causes of Muscle cramps are not always known, but they can be caused by

• muscle fatigue and overuse
• Dehydration or exercising in over warm environments
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Inadequate warm-up before exercise

Most muscle cramps are nothing to be concerned about, but if they persist or worsen (see muscle spasms), you should consider seeing an osteopath as they can be caused by a reduction in your blood supply to the muscle or other areas, compression of nerves at or near your spine or due to medication you may be on.

Our osteopaths will help find the reason for your cramps where possible, allay your fears or refer you directly for further tests (or via your GP). If it is nothing serious, your osteopath will help with massage and stretching and giving some nutritional and lifestyle advice.

Some people also experience abdominal cramps. This can be a symptom of digestive issues such as IBS, indigestion, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, and food allergies. 

If these pains become more frequent, more painful, change pattern, or associated with other symptoms such as night pain, night sweats, the unexpected change in weight or energy levels, or blood in your stools, then you should seek prompt medical advice.