Cramp! What Causes It and When Should You Seek Help?
Insights from the Jersey Sports & Spinal Clinic physiotherapy team
Cramps are a common yet often distressing experience — sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can occur anywhere in the body. While they are usually harmless, cramps can be intensely painful and disruptive, and the soreness can linger for hours or even days.
At Jersey Sports & Spinal Clinic (JSSC), many of our clients mention cramping as part of their presenting symptoms — particularly in the legs and feet. In fact, a survey of triathletes found that 67% had experienced cramps, and 4% reported severe cramping, highlighting just how widespread the issue is in active populations.
🔍 Understanding the Types of Cramps
Cramps generally fall into three categories, often with overlapping causes:
1. Exercise-Induced Muscle Cramps (EIMC)
These often occur during or shortly after physical activity — particularly when:
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The exercise is unusually intense or prolonged
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The individual is fatigued, dehydrated, or exercising in hot conditions
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There’s an electrolyte imbalance — particularly involving sodium, potassium, magnesium or calcium
Pickle juice, famously consumed by the England football team during the 2024 Euros, gained attention as a quick remedy, likely due to its impact on nerve reflexes rather than electrolyte content.
2. Cramps Due to Altered Neuromuscular Control
Emerging evidence suggests that cramps are also linked to changes in nerve input to the muscles. Studies show that those prone to cramps may have muscles that cramp more easily when stimulated, pointing to a neurological factor.
At JSSC, we assess both muscular and nervous system contributors when someone presents with recurring cramps — this holistic approach helps us treat the cause, not just the symptoms.
👉 Book an appointment with our team
3. Symptomatic or Nocturnal Cramps
These cramps often occur at night, particularly in older adults. They may be:
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Idiopathic (no clear cause)
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Linked to medications such as statins or diuretics
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A symptom of systemic health conditions, like:
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Diabetes
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Thyroid disorders
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Kidney disease
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Neuropathy
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Pregnancy
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In such cases, addressing the underlying issue is key. For persistent or severe cases, GPs may prescribe medications, but this typically follows a thorough review of all contributing factors.
⚠️ When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
If cramps are:
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Frequent
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Severe or prolonged
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Accompanied by other symptoms (numbness, weakness, swelling)
…it’s time to seek a physiotherapy assessment. At JSSC, we evaluate hydration, muscle strength, nerve function, biomechanics, and health history to pinpoint the likely cause and build a tailored plan to reduce frequency and severity.
✅ Tips for Managing and Preventing Cramps
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Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially in warm weather
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Maintain electrolyte balance with a nutritious diet
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Build up exercise gradually, especially after breaks
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Stretch regularly (especially calves and hamstrings)
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Seek professional advice if cramps disrupt sleep or performance
🧠 In Summary
Cramps can stem from multiple overlapping causes — from intense exercise or dehydration to nerve sensitivity, medications, or underlying conditions. While most are self-limiting, recurrent or painful cramps may need a closer look.
At Jersey Sports & Spinal Clinic, we’re here to help identify the root cause and support you with effective, evidence-based solutions.
👉 Book your physiotherapy appointment today and stop cramps from holding you back.
Thanks to @Jeukenndrup for this pictorial representation.