Cramp

A painful, involuntary contraction of a muscle.

Description

When a muscle suddenly tightens on its own and doesn't relax, causing pain.

Self-care

Stop doing the activity that led to the cramp. Massage the tight muscle. Gently stretch it. Place a warm towel or an ice pack on it. Have a sports drink to get electrolytes.

When to make a doctor's appointment

See a health care professional if the cramps:

Are very painful.
Happen often.
Don't go away or don't get better with self-care.
Aren't related to causes such as hard exercise or dehydration.