It usually lasts less than one minute, but may last several minutes
before the contraction subsides. In some cases it can last even longer,
depending on the intensity of the spasm. Therefore it is impossible
for the injured person to continue with exercise or sport because of
the discomfort caused by the muscular cramp.
As soon as cramp occurs, the physical activity should be stopped and
stretch the muscle gently. It is also helpful to massage the muscle
which the cramp occurs. Muscular cramp of the calf muscle cramp is
a very common type of cramp among athletes and all those involve in
sports. When the cramp occurs in this muscle, hold the calf muscle in
one hand while pulling the toes up toward the knee at the same time.
Walking also can help to relieve the spasm. In severe cases ice packs
should be applied to the cramping muscle. The ice packs help to
reduce the flow of blood to the muscle. Therefore it can help them
relax.
When muscular cramps occurs, you should know how to stretch the
affected muscles.
If the cramp occurs in the Hamstring Muscle - While sitting,
straighten one leg out in front of you and keep the foot upright with
relaxed toes and ankle. Lean forward and touch the foot of the
straightened leg. Repeat with the opposite leg.
If the cramp in the Calf Muscle – With toes pointing forward in a
standing lunge, straighten the rear leg until you feel a comfortable
stretch in the calf muscle. Repeat with the other leg.
If the cramp in the Quadriceps Muscle – While standing raise heel
towards buttocks holding the top of the foot and pulling the heel
gently in to the buttocks until you feel a comfortable stretch. Repeat
with the other leg.