Did you know about nature's muscle cramping helpers?

There are a number of natural remedies for helping to deal with muscle cramps.

Foods that will help:

• Coconut water (the MOST recommended)
• Bananas are great as they have a high Potassium content
• B vitamins from wheat flour, vegetables, fresh and dried fruit, porridge, potatoes and yeast extract
• Calcium found in broccoli and spinach
• Mustard and pickle juice because they contain acetic acid
• Turmeric due to its anti-inflammatory properties
• Apple cider vinegar because it has potassium content

Other things to try:

• Epsom salt soak in the bath
• Keep hydrated
• Warm shower or bath to relax muscles
• Light and gentle massage
• Gentle stretches
• Take electrolytes as needed (see Blog 5 Facts for Muscle Cramping)
• Deep breathing (if the cramps are brought on by shallow breaths)
• Temporarily reduce activity if onset occurred during strenuous burst

Turmeric powder

My favourite Cider Vinegar

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That's all for now from your dedicated Sports Massage Therapist

5 facts for Muscle Cramps

1. Cramp is the involuntary contraction of muscles

 

2. Common cramp sites are:

• Gastrocnemius

• Quads

• Hamstrings

• Abdomen

• feet

• hands

...but, it depends on what activity you are doing!

 

3. Cramp is thought to be caused by lack of oxygen to the muscles, lack of water, or lack of salt (electrolytes)

 

4. Deep breaths, adequate hydration and correct electrolyte balance can help to alleviate cramps

 

5. Gentle stretching and very light massage manipulations can help to reduce the problem

 

Cramps can dramatically impact your performance

 

During my Sports Massage in the Field work at the Cyprus Ultra, the most muscles one person had in spasm at one time were 3!

 

The electrolyte preparation that I enjoy using is High 5 and it is available in Limassol from Micromania. Whether you are active in sports, or dealing with life in extremely hot temperatures, these are highly recommended.

 

Like what you read? Sign up for the Limassol Sports Massage website for extra tips and special offers?

 

That's all for now from your dedicated Sports Massage Therapist