inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf

inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf
get healthing in your inbox with the morning checkup and weekender newsletter!

top of the page

muscle cramps

a muscle cramp is a strong, painful muscle contraction or tightening that comes on suddenly and lasts from a few seconds to several minutes. soreness in the muscle may last for hours after the hard, tense cramp has stopped.

the cause of muscle cramps is not always known. muscle cramps may be brought on by many conditions or activities, such as:

  • exercising, injury, or overuse of muscles.
  • dehydration.
  • pregnancy.
  • exposure to cold temperatures, especially to cold water.
  • other medical conditions, such as blood flow problems (peripheral arterial disease), kidney disease, thyroid disease, and multiple sclerosis.

also, many medicines can cause muscle cramps.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

advertisement