We have all had cramps one time in our life. Calves, hamstrings, and feet are pretty common to have cramping. As we get older, cramps become more common. 

In a Harvard study, half of the participants that were 60 reported having leg cramps, a third say they are awakened by cramps at night, and 15% report weekly episodes. These are very painful and can stop you right in your tracks.

So what causes muscle cramps?

According to Dr. Bruce Bean, Robert Winthrop Professor of Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School, leg cramps are muscle spasms caused by “mini-seizures” of motor neurons which control muscle contractions. They are most common when musculoskeletal issues happen such as:

• Arch issues with the feet
• Metabolic disorders which effect the body’s chemical interactions
•  Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease
• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalances can all cause cramping. (Magnesium, sodium, calcium, potassium) 
• Statins or cholesterol drugs
• Liver disease
• Inadequate blood supply 
• Nerve compression

• Scientists have discovered that motor neurons work harder during cramping so finding a way to calm these synapses down is key. 

  How can we prevent cramps?

  1. Chiropractic and body work help to keep the nerves and muscles healthy and communicating efficiently.
  2. Make sure you are rolling out tight muscles and stretching.
  3. Vitamin B complex can help your energy levels, brain function, and cell metabolism leading to better nutrition to the muscles and nerves.
     
     Muscle cramp remedies and therapies that people use and swear by but are not “scientific” for prevention and stopping the cramps: 

1. Sleeping with a bar of soap by the effected area. No side effects here.

1. Mustard or pickle juice: Swallowing a teaspoon of mustard when you are experiencing cramps or an ounce of pickle juice can quickly alleviate cramps. If cramping is problematic for you, taking a teaspoon of either per night will prevent chronic cramping. Keep in mind though, if you have GERD or are watching your salt levels, you may want to check to make sure it is okay with your doctors treatment plan. 
2. 
   This method, because these tastes are so strong, scientists think the foods might stimulate ion channels in the mouth, esophagus, and stomach to send signals to the central nervous system that inactivate overexcited neurons. Pretty cool huh?
   
   
3. HotShot: This 1.7-ounce dose of cinnamon, ginger, lime juice, sweeteners, and capsaicin (the active compound in chili peppers). This was developed by Dr. Bean and Dr. Rod MacKinnon, a Nobel Laureate in Chemistry at Rockefeller University, as a remedy for cramping during rigorous exercise.

Hot shots have the same effect as the mustard/pickle remedy but the effects last longer. works along the same principle as mustard and pickle juice, but has longer-lasting effects. You can purchase this remedy as a sports drink. It is about $7.00 on amazon.

Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP is a Holistic Practitioner - Chiropractor.  She focuses on full body wellness and sports and has over 14 years experience helping patients reach their health and wellness goals.

References: 

https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/is-there-hope-for-leg-cramp-sufferers#:~:text=HotShot%20.,for%20cramping%20during%20rigorous%20exercise.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/muscle-cramp/symptoms-causes/syc-20350820