Skurcz mięśni
Epidemiologia

Skurcze mięśni, definiowane jako mimowolne, bolesne skurcze pojedynczych mięśni lub grup mięśniowych, stanowią powszechny problem kliniczny, dotykający około 37% populacji ogólnej, ze wzrostem częstości do 46% u osób powyżej 60. roku życia (95% CI: 38-53%). Szczególnie narażone są osoby starsze, kobiety ciężarne (30-50% w trzecim trymestrze) oraz pacjenci z chorobami przewlekłymi, takimi jak POChP (46%), mocznica (około 50%) czy niedoczynność tarczycy (20-50%). Skurcze nocne, najczęściej lokalizujące się w obrębie łydki (około 80% przypadków), znacząco wpływają na jakość życia, powodując zaburzenia snu i dyskomfort. Epidemiologia wskazuje na brak jednoznacznych różnic płciowych, choć niektóre badania sugerują wyższą częstość u kobiet, zwłaszcza w kontekście nocnych skurczów i chorób naczyń obwodowych.

Epidemiologia skurczów mięśni – ogólne dane

Skurcze mięśni to ciągłe, mimowolne, bolesne i zlokalizowane skurcze całej grupy mięśniowej, pojedynczego mięśnia lub wybranych włókien mięśniowych. Stanowią one niezwykle powszechny problem medyczny, dotykający około 95% osób przynajmniej raz w życiu.1 Epidemiologia skurczów mięśni nie jest jednoznacznie wyjaśniona w literaturze naukowej, ponieważ objawy te mogą występować w różnych kontekstach i populacjach.23

Badania wskazują, że ogólna częstość występowania skurczów mięśni w populacji wynosi około 37%, przy czym są one bardziej powszechne u osób starszych.4 W populacji ogólnej skurcze nocne występują u 40% osób powyżej 50. roku życia, a ich częstotliwość wzrasta wraz z wiekiem. Nie wykazano preferencji płciowej, ale zaobserwowano związek z zaburzeniami snu i ogólnie gorszym stanem zdrowia.5

Skurcze mięśni w różnych grupach wiekowych

Skurcze mięśni dotykają pacjentów w różnym wieku, jednak ich częstość występowania znacząco wzrasta wraz z wiekiem:6

  • U dzieci i młodzieży nocne skurcze mięśni występują u około 7% populacji, ze szczytem zachorowań w wieku 16-18 lat; nie odnotowano przypadków u dzieci poniżej 8. roku życia7
  • U osób powyżej 60. roku życia skorygowana częstość występowania skurczów mięśni wynosi 46% (95% CI: 38-53%)8
  • U osób powyżej 65. roku życia we Francji skurcze mięśni występują najczęściej w przedziale wiekowym 65-69 lat910
  • W badaniu obejmującym 365 pacjentów ze średnią wieku 78,5 lat częstość występowania skurczów nóg wynosiła 50%11
  • U osób powyżej 80. roku życia skurcze mięśni dotykają około 50% populacji12

Różnice płciowe w występowaniu skurczów mięśni

Istnieją sprzeczne dane dotyczące różnic płciowych w występowaniu skurczów mięśni:

  • Niektóre badania wskazują, że nie ma związku między płcią a występowaniem skurczów1314
  • Inne badania sugerują, że kobiety cierpią częściej niż mężczyźni z powodu nocnych skurczów15
  • Czynniki związane z wyższym ryzykiem skurczów nóg obejmują choroby naczyń obwodowych, zapalenie stawów i płeć żeńską16
  • Częstość występowania skurczów jest najwyższa u kobiet i osób starszych17

Skurcze mięśni w określonych grupach pacjentów

Skurcze mięśni u kobiet w ciąży

Skurcze mięśni stanowią powszechny problem u kobiet ciężarnych:

  • Częstość występowania skurczów mięśni u kobiet w ciąży w Chinach wynosi 32,9%, najczęściej dotykając obszaru łydki1819
  • Skurcze nóg dotykają około 30% kobiet w czasie ciąży20
  • Około 50% kobiet ciężarnych doświadcza skurczów nóg, szczególnie w trzecim trymestrze i w nocy21
  • Częstość występowania wzrasta wraz z rozwojem ciąży, osiągając najwyższy poziom w trzecim trymestrze22

Skurcze mięśni u pacjentów z chorobami współistniejącymi

Skurcze mięśni często towarzyszą różnym chorobom:

Skurcze mięśni związane z wysiłkiem fizycznym

Skurcze mięśni związane z wysiłkiem fizycznym (Exercise Associated Muscle Cramps, EAMC) stanowią najczęstszy stan wymagający interwencji medycznej/terapeutycznej podczas uprawiania sportu.3334 Dane epidemiologiczne dotyczące EAMC wskazują na ich znaczne rozpowszechnienie w różnych dyscyplinach sportowych.

Częstotliwość występowania u sportowców

  • Badanie wieloośrodkowe w USA wykazało, że 74% skurczów występuje u sportowców w warunkach wysokiej temperatury otoczenia353637
  • Podczas letnich Igrzysk Azjatyckich 2010 w Guangzhou, najczęstszymi diagnozami urazów nawrotowych były skurcze mięśni łydki (16,2%, 95% CI: 7,4-25,0)38
  • W badaniu dotyczącym kolarzy uczestniczących w masowej imprezie kolarskiej, częstość występowania EAMC w ciągu całego życia wynosiła 30,6%, a roczna zapadalność 18,7%39

Czynniki ryzyka EAMC u sportowców

Zidentyfikowano szereg czynników ryzyka skurczów mięśni związanych z wysiłkiem fizycznym:

  • Niezależne czynniki ryzyka związane ze zwiększonym ryzykiem EAMC u kolarzy obejmują:
    • Wyższy złożony wskaźnik chorób przewlekłych (PR=1,34 na 2 jednostki wzrostu; p≤0,0001)
    • Historia alergii (PR=1,17; p≤0,0001)
    • Historia urazu o ostrym początku (PR=1,31; p≤0,0001)
    • Historia urazu o stopniowym początku (PR=1,29; p≤0,0001)
    • Zwiększona liczba lat uczestnictwa w wydarzeniach kolarskich trwających ponad 2 godziny (PR=1,34 na 2 jednostki wzrostu, p≤0,0001)40
  • EAMC występują częściej w najgorętszych miesiącach roku, a częstość ich występowania różni się w zależności od dyscypliny sportowej, wieku i płci41
  • Mniej doświadczeni biegacze, starsi biegacze i ci biegnący szybciej są bardziej narażeni na doświadczanie skurczów mięśni42
  • Sportowcy są bardziej narażeni na skurcze w okresie przedsezonowym, gdy organizm nie jest przystosowany i jest bardziej podatny na zmęczenie43
  • Skurcze często rozwijają się pod koniec intensywnego lub długotrwałego wysiłku lub 4-6 godzin później44

Nocne skurcze nóg

Nocne skurcze nóg stanowią istotny problem zdrowotny, wpływający na jakość życia pacjentów:

Wpływ skurczów mięśni na jakość życia

Skurcze mięśni mogą mieć znaczący wpływ na jakość życia pacjentów, mimo że często nie są zgłaszane lekarzom:

  • Problem skurczów jest często niepokojący, wpływa na sen i ma niekorzystny wpływ na jakość życia51
  • Mimo długotrwałego występowania skurczów nóg u wielu pacjentów, tylko 40% uczestników jednego badania zgłosiło swoje skurcze nóg lekarzowi52
  • Większość przypadków skurczów mięśni nigdy nie jest zgłaszana do organów zdrowia publicznego, co utrudnia ocenę rzeczywistej częstości ich występowania53
  • Chociaż tylko mniejszość pacjentów zgłasza cierpienie z powodu skurczów częściej niż raz w tygodniu, wielu pacjentów zgłasza zakłócenia snu związane ze skurczami54

Znaczenie nadzoru i badań nad skurczami mięśni

Istnieje pilna potrzeba lepszego zrozumienia epidemiologii i mechanizmów skurczów mięśni oraz opracowania skutecznych metod leczenia:

  • Istnieje potrzeba opracowania i walidacji narzędzia do oceny nocnych skurczów nóg, lepszego zbadania konsekwencji zmian częstości skurczów na jakość życia, lepszej identyfikacji czynników ryzyka oraz zbadania oczekiwań pacjentów dotyczących leczenia55
  • Istnieje pilna potrzeba opracowania nowych opcji terapeutycznych w leczeniu skurczów mięśni, szczególnie po ograniczeniu stosowania siarczanu chininy w leczeniu skurczów mięśni w USA przez Agencję Żywności i Leków56
  • Potrzebne jest również opracowanie niezawodnego i zwalidowanego narzędzia do oceny nasilenia i wpływu skurczów zarówno w praktyce klinicznej, jak i w badaniach klinicznych57
  • Pomimo częstego wykorzystywania częstości skurczów jako głównej miary wyniku w badaniach dotyczących skurczów mięśni, zwalidowana skala oceny uwzględniająca nie tylko częstość skurczów, ale także czas trwania i nasilenie bólu może być bardziej optymalnym sposobem oceny skurczów mięśni i pomiaru istotnej klinicznie zmiany58

Podsumowanie danych epidemiologicznych

Skurcze mięśni stanowią powszechny problem medyczny dotykający różne grupy wiekowe i populacje. Najważniejsze dane epidemiologiczne można podsumować następująco:

  • Ogólna częstość występowania skurczów mięśni w populacji wynosi około 37%, z tendencją wzrostową wraz z wiekiem59
  • Około 80% skurczów występuje w obszarze łydki6061
  • W populacji osób starszych (powyżej 60 lat) częstość występowania skurczów mięśni wynosi około 46%62
  • U kobiet w ciąży częstość występowania skurczów mięśni wynosi około 30-50%, szczególnie w trzecim trymestrze6364
  • U pacjentów z POChP skurcze mięśni występują u 46% badanych6566
  • U sportowców częstość występowania skurczów związanych z wysiłkiem fizycznym (EAMC) w ciągu całego życia wynosi około 30%, z roczną zapadalnością na poziomie 18,7%67

Pomimo powszechności występowania skurczów mięśni, ich dokładna etiologia pozostaje niejasna, a potrzeba lepszego zrozumienia mechanizmów leżących u ich podstaw oraz opracowania skutecznych metod leczenia stanowi istotne wyzwanie dla współczesnej medycyny.68

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  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Muscle Cramp: Types, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
    https://www.medicinenet.com/muscle_cramps/article.htm
    Muscle cramps are extremely common. Almost everyone (one estimate is about 95%) experiences a cramp at some time in their life. Muscle cramps are common in adults and become increasingly frequent with aging. However, children also experience cramps in their muscles. […] Numerous medicines can cause cramps. Potent diuretic medications, such as furosemide (Lasix), or the vigorous removal of body fluids, even with less potent diuretics, can induce cramps by depleting body fluid and sodium. […] Poor circulation to the leg muscles, which results in inadequate oxygen to the muscle tissue, can cause severe pain in the leg muscle (sometimes known as claudication pain or intermittent claudication) that occurs with walking or exercise. […] Cramps are sometimes noted in addicted individuals during withdrawal from medications and substances that have sedative effects, including alcohol, barbiturates, and other sedatives, anti-anxiety agents such as benzodiazepines (for example, diazepam [Valium] and alprazolam [Xanax]), narcotics, and other drugs.
  • #2 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibers. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #3 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibres. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #4 A general population survey of rest cramps – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7825490/
    Two hundred and eighteen subjects, out of 250 individuals taken from a general practice register, returned completed questionnaires giving details about rest cramps, and a further 15 were contacted by telephone. The overall prevalence of rest cramps in the survey population was 37%. The symptom was more prevalent in older subjects. […] There was a significant, positive association between rest cramps and symptoms of angina or intermittent claudication although these two factors only accounted for 12% of the variance, suggesting that peripheral vascular disease may play a relevant but limited role in the aetiology of rest cramps.
  • #5 Nocturnal muscle cramps – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/nocturnal-leg-cramps
    Nocturnal muscle cramps are common and frequently unreported to clinicians. In the general population, they are present in 40 percent of those over the age of 50, have an increased frequency with age, show no sex preference, and are associated with sleep disturbance and overall poor health. […] Nocturnal muscle cramps have been reported in approximately 7 percent of children and adolescents. Peak occurrence in this population was at 16 to 18 years of age, with no cases reported less than eight years of age. Pediatric nocturnal leg cramps are typically benign, self-limited, and infrequent.
  • #6 Prevalence of cramps in patients over the age of 60 in primary care : a cross sectional study | BMC Primary Care | Full Text
    https://bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-016-0509-9
    Cramps are involuntary painful muscle contractions that mainly affect older people. […] The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence and the main features of cramps among primary care patients aged 60 years and older. […] The adjusted prevalence was 46 % (95 % CI: 3853 %). […] Cramps are common in primary care, and although only a minority of patients report suffering from cramps more than once a week, many patients report cramp-related sleep disturbance. […] Given the high impact of cramps on patients quality of life, there is a need to provide data on their epidemiology in the context of primary care. […] This study confirms that cramps are a frequent problem in primary care. […] Nearly half the patients indicated suffering from cramps. […] Nearly one third of the patients declared being woken up by cramps.
  • #7 Nocturnal muscle cramps – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/nocturnal-leg-cramps
    Nocturnal muscle cramps are common and frequently unreported to clinicians. In the general population, they are present in 40 percent of those over the age of 50, have an increased frequency with age, show no sex preference, and are associated with sleep disturbance and overall poor health. […] Nocturnal muscle cramps have been reported in approximately 7 percent of children and adolescents. Peak occurrence in this population was at 16 to 18 years of age, with no cases reported less than eight years of age. Pediatric nocturnal leg cramps are typically benign, self-limited, and infrequent.
  • #8 Prevalence of cramps in patients over the age of 60 in primary care : a cross sectional study | BMC Primary Care | Full Text
    https://bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-016-0509-9
    Cramps are involuntary painful muscle contractions that mainly affect older people. […] The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence and the main features of cramps among primary care patients aged 60 years and older. […] The adjusted prevalence was 46 % (95 % CI: 3853 %). […] Cramps are common in primary care, and although only a minority of patients report suffering from cramps more than once a week, many patients report cramp-related sleep disturbance. […] Given the high impact of cramps on patients quality of life, there is a need to provide data on their epidemiology in the context of primary care. […] This study confirms that cramps are a frequent problem in primary care. […] Nearly half the patients indicated suffering from cramps. […] Nearly one third of the patients declared being woken up by cramps.
  • #9 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibers. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #10 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibres. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #11 Best Evidence Review: Muscle Cramps — Painful, Common, and Neglected
    https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/725910
    Muscle cramps are common and are seen by physicians in a number of specialties. They can be very frustrating for patient and physician alike. In a study of patients in a general practice register, the overall prevalence of cramps at rest was 37%. […] This study also found that muscle cramps were more common among older adults. In a study of 365 patients with a mean age of 78.5 years, the prevalence of leg cramps was 50%. […] Factors associated with a higher risk of leg cramps included peripheral vascular disease, arthritis, and being female. […] Despite the long duration of leg cramps for many patients–or perhaps because individuals had become resigned to life with these symptoms — only 40% of participants in one study had reported their leg cramps to their practitioner.
  • #12 Leg Cramps: A Sign of Underlying Illness?
    https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/leg-cramps-a-sign-of-underlying-illness
    Leg cramps are characterized by sudden, severe, and involuntary muscle contractions. […] Although anyone can experience leg cramps, the incidence is highest in women and older adults, affecting an estimated 33% of individuals older than 60 and an estimated 50% of individuals older than 80. […] The majority of leg cramps are idiopathic and harmless, but some may result from underlying illnesses such as diabetes or peripheral artery disease. […] Patients who experience severe and/or continual leg cramps should be encouraged to seek further assistance from their primary health care provider.
  • #13 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibers. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #14 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibres. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #15 Healthy Aging: Muscle Cramps & Spasms | MUSC Health | Charleston SC
    https://muschealth.org/medical-services/geriatrics-and-aging/healthy-aging/cramps-and-spasms
    Cramps occur commonly, it is estimated that 60 percent of adults have cramps from time to time. […] The frequency increases as we age. […] Women suffer more than men with nighttime cramps. […] In addition to age, there are a number of risk factors that often are associated with muscle cramping. […] Cramps are associated with physical exertion. […] Dehydration for any reason predisposes one to cramping. […] Some of the diseases associated with cramping include alcoholism, hypothyroidism, myopathies, renal disease with dialysis, and excessive sweating. […] Muscle spasms and cramping are increasingly common as we age. […] They generally are a benign problem that is self-limited and often preventable.
  • #16 Best Evidence Review: Muscle Cramps — Painful, Common, and Neglected
    https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/725910
    Muscle cramps are common and are seen by physicians in a number of specialties. They can be very frustrating for patient and physician alike. In a study of patients in a general practice register, the overall prevalence of cramps at rest was 37%. […] This study also found that muscle cramps were more common among older adults. In a study of 365 patients with a mean age of 78.5 years, the prevalence of leg cramps was 50%. […] Factors associated with a higher risk of leg cramps included peripheral vascular disease, arthritis, and being female. […] Despite the long duration of leg cramps for many patients–or perhaps because individuals had become resigned to life with these symptoms — only 40% of participants in one study had reported their leg cramps to their practitioner.
  • #17 Leg Cramps: A Sign of Underlying Illness?
    https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/leg-cramps-a-sign-of-underlying-illness
    Leg cramps are characterized by sudden, severe, and involuntary muscle contractions. […] Although anyone can experience leg cramps, the incidence is highest in women and older adults, affecting an estimated 33% of individuals older than 60 and an estimated 50% of individuals older than 80. […] The majority of leg cramps are idiopathic and harmless, but some may result from underlying illnesses such as diabetes or peripheral artery disease. […] Patients who experience severe and/or continual leg cramps should be encouraged to seek further assistance from their primary health care provider.
  • #18 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibers. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #19 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibres. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #20 Muscle Cramps (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment)
    https://patient.info/doctor/muscle-cramps
    Groups at increased risk of muscle cramps: […] Up to 60% of adults report that they have had nocturnal leg cramps. […] The problem is often distressing, impacting on sleep, and has an adverse effect on quality of life. […] Pregnant women – up to 30% of women can be affected by leg cramps during pregnancy. […] Muscle cramps are common in children, especially at night. […] Those with metabolic disorders; for example, 50% of patients with uraemia and 20-50% of those with hypothyroidism complain of muscle cramps. […] Athletes and individuals working under hot conditions – eg, firemen.
  • #21 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    Nocturnal leg cramps impact 37% of the population over 60 years of age in America. Most commonly, the calf is the area affected. As a result of cramping, sleep is disrupted, and quality of life can be reduced. The exact cause of this type of cramp is unknown. Suggestions for a cause include standing at work and performing high levels of physical activity. Some predisposing factors could be electrolyte disturbances, neurological conditions, hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances or compressions of nerve roots. Drugs such as statins and diuretics could also be involved. […] Leg cramps are commonly observed in pregnant individuals, with them being experienced by around 50% of pregnant people. They are particularly common during the third trimester and during the night. Again, the cause is unclear. Potential causes could involve neuromuscular function, weight gain, nerve compressions, blood flow, or increased work by muscles.
  • #22 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    It has been observed that exercise-associated muscle cramps are more common during the hottest months of the year and that incidence varies by sport, age and sex. It has also been shown that less experienced runners, older runners and those running faster were at a higher risk of experiencing muscle cramps. […] Currently, there are no studies looking only at muscle cramps, but rather ones investigating them alongside other variations. However, the following topics may shed some light on the epidemiology of muscle cramps. […] 80% of cramps occur in the calf […] Nocturnal cramps are thought to impact 6% of the adult American population and appear to be related to heart conditions and depression. […] In China, cramps are shown to affect the calf area of pregnant women. The incidence increases as pregnancy develops, with the highest incidence being in the third trimester. […] An American study has shown that 46% of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suffer from muscle cramps. […] An American study has shown that 74% of muscle cramps occur in athletes in hot conditions.
  • #23 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    A multi-center American study reported that patients with COPD suffer from 46% of muscle cramps, which appears to be the major cause of pain in this patient population. […] Another multi-center American study found that 74% of cramps occur in athletes and in high environmental heat conditions. […] In Australia, 32% of children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A suffer from calf cramps. The phenomenon increases with increasing age.
  • #24 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    A multi-centre American study reported that patients with COPD suffer from 46% of muscle cramps, which appears to be the major cause of pain in this patient population. […] Another multi-centre American study found that 74% of cramps occur in athletes and in high environmental heat conditions. […] In Australia, 32% of children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A suffer from calf cramps.
  • #25 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    It has been observed that exercise-associated muscle cramps are more common during the hottest months of the year and that incidence varies by sport, age and sex. It has also been shown that less experienced runners, older runners and those running faster were at a higher risk of experiencing muscle cramps. […] Currently, there are no studies looking only at muscle cramps, but rather ones investigating them alongside other variations. However, the following topics may shed some light on the epidemiology of muscle cramps. […] 80% of cramps occur in the calf […] Nocturnal cramps are thought to impact 6% of the adult American population and appear to be related to heart conditions and depression. […] In China, cramps are shown to affect the calf area of pregnant women. The incidence increases as pregnancy develops, with the highest incidence being in the third trimester. […] An American study has shown that 46% of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suffer from muscle cramps. […] An American study has shown that 74% of muscle cramps occur in athletes in hot conditions.
  • #26 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    A multi-center American study reported that patients with COPD suffer from 46% of muscle cramps, which appears to be the major cause of pain in this patient population. […] Another multi-center American study found that 74% of cramps occur in athletes and in high environmental heat conditions. […] In Australia, 32% of children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A suffer from calf cramps. The phenomenon increases with increasing age.
  • #27 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    A multi-centre American study reported that patients with COPD suffer from 46% of muscle cramps, which appears to be the major cause of pain in this patient population. […] Another multi-centre American study found that 74% of cramps occur in athletes and in high environmental heat conditions. […] In Australia, 32% of children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A suffer from calf cramps.
  • #28 Muscle Cramps (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment)
    https://patient.info/doctor/muscle-cramps
    Groups at increased risk of muscle cramps: […] Up to 60% of adults report that they have had nocturnal leg cramps. […] The problem is often distressing, impacting on sleep, and has an adverse effect on quality of life. […] Pregnant women – up to 30% of women can be affected by leg cramps during pregnancy. […] Muscle cramps are common in children, especially at night. […] Those with metabolic disorders; for example, 50% of patients with uraemia and 20-50% of those with hypothyroidism complain of muscle cramps. […] Athletes and individuals working under hot conditions – eg, firemen.
  • #29 Muscle cramps and dystonia | Parkinson’s UK
    https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/information-and-support/muscle-cramps-and-dystonia
    Anyone can experience muscle cramps but they are more common in people with Parkinsons. […] Muscle cramps happen when your muscles shorten more than they are used to, or when they suddenly tighten, causing sharp pain. […] Some people with Parkinsons say that muscle cramps happen when they have done something specific. […] If exercises arent working and youre still having problems with muscle cramps, your GP may suggest medication, such as over-the-counter painkillers, like paracetamol or muscle relaxants. […] Quinine is sometimes prescribed for leg cramps. […] Dystonia appears to be caused by problems with the basal ganglia. […] In Parkinsons, dystonia is often linked to levodopa. […] Dystonia mostly happens as levodopa is wearing off. […] More rarely and often in people diagnosed at a younger age, Parkinsons itself can cause dystonia.
  • #30 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibers. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #31 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibres. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #32 A general population survey of rest cramps – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7825490/
    Two hundred and eighteen subjects, out of 250 individuals taken from a general practice register, returned completed questionnaires giving details about rest cramps, and a further 15 were contacted by telephone. The overall prevalence of rest cramps in the survey population was 37%. The symptom was more prevalent in older subjects. […] There was a significant, positive association between rest cramps and symptoms of angina or intermittent claudication although these two factors only accounted for 12% of the variance, suggesting that peripheral vascular disease may play a relevant but limited role in the aetiology of rest cramps.
  • #33 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibers. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #34 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibres. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #35 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    A multi-center American study reported that patients with COPD suffer from 46% of muscle cramps, which appears to be the major cause of pain in this patient population. […] Another multi-center American study found that 74% of cramps occur in athletes and in high environmental heat conditions. […] In Australia, 32% of children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A suffer from calf cramps. The phenomenon increases with increasing age.
  • #36 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    A multi-centre American study reported that patients with COPD suffer from 46% of muscle cramps, which appears to be the major cause of pain in this patient population. […] Another multi-centre American study found that 74% of cramps occur in athletes and in high environmental heat conditions. […] In Australia, 32% of children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A suffer from calf cramps.
  • #37 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    It has been observed that exercise-associated muscle cramps are more common during the hottest months of the year and that incidence varies by sport, age and sex. It has also been shown that less experienced runners, older runners and those running faster were at a higher risk of experiencing muscle cramps. […] Currently, there are no studies looking only at muscle cramps, but rather ones investigating them alongside other variations. However, the following topics may shed some light on the epidemiology of muscle cramps. […] 80% of cramps occur in the calf […] Nocturnal cramps are thought to impact 6% of the adult American population and appear to be related to heart conditions and depression. […] In China, cramps are shown to affect the calf area of pregnant women. The incidence increases as pregnancy develops, with the highest incidence being in the third trimester. […] An American study has shown that 46% of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suffer from muscle cramps. […] An American study has shown that 74% of muscle cramps occur in athletes in hot conditions.
  • #38 KoreaMed Synapse
    https://synapse.koreamed.org/articles/1054467
    The purpose of this study was to do the surveillance study of sports injuries which were suffered to National players of South Korea Team during the summer Asian Games 2010 in Guangzhou. […] Total 725 injuries (430 athletes) were reported, and 288 injuries (209 athletes) were newly incurred: 68 injuries (58 athletes) were recurrent with previous history, resulting in total incidence rate: 45.5 injuries/1000 athlete exposures (AE) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 40.150.6 injuries/1000 AE) and incidence proportion: 26% (95% CI: 2329). […] The most frequent diagnoses were lateral ankle ligament sprain (n=28, 9.7%, 95% CI: 6.313.1), calf muscle cramp (n=23, 95% CI: 4.911.1), and hamstring strain (n=22, 95% CI: 4.610.7). […] The most frequent diagnoses of relapsed injury were calf muscle cramp (n=11, 16.2%, 95% CI: 7.425.0), low back strain (n=6, 8.8%, 95% CI: 2.115.6), and hamstring strain (n=6, 8.8%, 95% CI: 2.115.6). […] Our data indicated incidence rates, incidence proportions, characteristics and frequent diagnoses of acute and recurrent sports injuries during the games, therefore these results could provide relevant information for the sports injury prevention at elite level.
  • #39 Exercise Associated Muscle Cramps in Cyclists : Epidemiology, clinical characteristics and risk factors
    https://repository.up.ac.za/handle/2263/78530
    Background: Exercise associated muscle cramping (EAMC) is a common medical condition encountered by endurance athletes, yet information regarding EAMC in cyclists in lacking. […] Aim of the study: To determine the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and independent risk factors associated with EAMC in cyclists participating in a mass participation cycling event. […] The lifetime prevalence of EAMC was 30.6%, with an annual incidence of 18.7%. […] Novel independent risk factors associated with an increased risk of hEAMC in cyclists were: a higher chronic disease composite score (PR=1.34 per 2 unit increase; p0.0001), a history of any allergies (PR=1.17; p0.0001), a history of an acute onset injury (PR=1.31; p0.0001), a history of a gradual onset injury (PR=1.29; p0.0001), and increased number of years participating in cycling events of 2 hours (PR=1.34 per 2 unit increase, p0.0001). […] Risk factors for EAMC need to be taken into consideration when implementing prevention and management programmes of EAMC in cyclists.
  • #40 Exercise Associated Muscle Cramps in Cyclists : Epidemiology, clinical characteristics and risk factors
    https://repository.up.ac.za/handle/2263/78530
    Background: Exercise associated muscle cramping (EAMC) is a common medical condition encountered by endurance athletes, yet information regarding EAMC in cyclists in lacking. […] Aim of the study: To determine the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and independent risk factors associated with EAMC in cyclists participating in a mass participation cycling event. […] The lifetime prevalence of EAMC was 30.6%, with an annual incidence of 18.7%. […] Novel independent risk factors associated with an increased risk of hEAMC in cyclists were: a higher chronic disease composite score (PR=1.34 per 2 unit increase; p0.0001), a history of any allergies (PR=1.17; p0.0001), a history of an acute onset injury (PR=1.31; p0.0001), a history of a gradual onset injury (PR=1.29; p0.0001), and increased number of years participating in cycling events of 2 hours (PR=1.34 per 2 unit increase, p0.0001). […] Risk factors for EAMC need to be taken into consideration when implementing prevention and management programmes of EAMC in cyclists.
  • #41 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    It has been observed that exercise-associated muscle cramps are more common during the hottest months of the year and that incidence varies by sport, age and sex. It has also been shown that less experienced runners, older runners and those running faster were at a higher risk of experiencing muscle cramps. […] Currently, there are no studies looking only at muscle cramps, but rather ones investigating them alongside other variations. However, the following topics may shed some light on the epidemiology of muscle cramps. […] 80% of cramps occur in the calf […] Nocturnal cramps are thought to impact 6% of the adult American population and appear to be related to heart conditions and depression. […] In China, cramps are shown to affect the calf area of pregnant women. The incidence increases as pregnancy develops, with the highest incidence being in the third trimester. […] An American study has shown that 46% of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suffer from muscle cramps. […] An American study has shown that 74% of muscle cramps occur in athletes in hot conditions.
  • #42 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    It has been observed that exercise-associated muscle cramps are more common during the hottest months of the year and that incidence varies by sport, age and sex. It has also been shown that less experienced runners, older runners and those running faster were at a higher risk of experiencing muscle cramps. […] Currently, there are no studies looking only at muscle cramps, but rather ones investigating them alongside other variations. However, the following topics may shed some light on the epidemiology of muscle cramps. […] 80% of cramps occur in the calf […] Nocturnal cramps are thought to impact 6% of the adult American population and appear to be related to heart conditions and depression. […] In China, cramps are shown to affect the calf area of pregnant women. The incidence increases as pregnancy develops, with the highest incidence being in the third trimester. […] An American study has shown that 46% of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suffer from muscle cramps. […] An American study has shown that 74% of muscle cramps occur in athletes in hot conditions.
  • #43 Muscle Cramps – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/muscle-cramps
    Muscle cramps are more likely when you exercise in hot weather because sweat drains your body’s fluids, salt, and minerals (i.e., potassium, magnesium, and calcium). Loss of these nutrients may also cause a muscle to spasm. […] Muscle cramps are very common among endurance athletes, such as marathon runners and triathletes, and older people who perform strenuous physical activities. […] Some people are predisposed to muscle cramps and get them regularly with any physical exertion. […] Those at greatest risk for cramps and other ailments related to excess heat include infants and young children, and people over age 65. […] Athletes are more likely to get cramps in the preseason when the body is not conditioned and therefore more subject to fatigue. Cramps often develop near the end of intense or prolonged exercise, or 4 to 6 hours later. […] Older people are more susceptible to muscle cramps due to normal muscle loss (atrophy) that begins in the mid-40s and accelerates with inactivity.
  • #44 Muscle Cramps – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/muscle-cramps
    Muscle cramps are more likely when you exercise in hot weather because sweat drains your body’s fluids, salt, and minerals (i.e., potassium, magnesium, and calcium). Loss of these nutrients may also cause a muscle to spasm. […] Muscle cramps are very common among endurance athletes, such as marathon runners and triathletes, and older people who perform strenuous physical activities. […] Some people are predisposed to muscle cramps and get them regularly with any physical exertion. […] Those at greatest risk for cramps and other ailments related to excess heat include infants and young children, and people over age 65. […] Athletes are more likely to get cramps in the preseason when the body is not conditioned and therefore more subject to fatigue. Cramps often develop near the end of intense or prolonged exercise, or 4 to 6 hours later. […] Older people are more susceptible to muscle cramps due to normal muscle loss (atrophy) that begins in the mid-40s and accelerates with inactivity.
  • #45 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    Nocturnal leg cramps impact 37% of the population over 60 years of age in America. Most commonly, the calf is the area affected. As a result of cramping, sleep is disrupted, and quality of life can be reduced. The exact cause of this type of cramp is unknown. Suggestions for a cause include standing at work and performing high levels of physical activity. Some predisposing factors could be electrolyte disturbances, neurological conditions, hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances or compressions of nerve roots. Drugs such as statins and diuretics could also be involved. […] Leg cramps are commonly observed in pregnant individuals, with them being experienced by around 50% of pregnant people. They are particularly common during the third trimester and during the night. Again, the cause is unclear. Potential causes could involve neuromuscular function, weight gain, nerve compressions, blood flow, or increased work by muscles.
  • #46 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    Nocturnal leg cramps impact 37% of the population over 60 years of age in America. Most commonly, the calf is the area affected. As a result of cramping, sleep is disrupted, and quality of life can be reduced. The exact cause of this type of cramp is unknown. Suggestions for a cause include standing at work and performing high levels of physical activity. Some predisposing factors could be electrolyte disturbances, neurological conditions, hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances or compressions of nerve roots. Drugs such as statins and diuretics could also be involved. […] Leg cramps are commonly observed in pregnant individuals, with them being experienced by around 50% of pregnant people. They are particularly common during the third trimester and during the night. Again, the cause is unclear. Potential causes could involve neuromuscular function, weight gain, nerve compressions, blood flow, or increased work by muscles.
  • #47 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    Nocturnal leg cramps impact 37% of the population over 60 years of age in America. Most commonly, the calf is the area affected. As a result of cramping, sleep is disrupted, and quality of life can be reduced. The exact cause of this type of cramp is unknown. Suggestions for a cause include standing at work and performing high levels of physical activity. Some predisposing factors could be electrolyte disturbances, neurological conditions, hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances or compressions of nerve roots. Drugs such as statins and diuretics could also be involved. […] Leg cramps are commonly observed in pregnant individuals, with them being experienced by around 50% of pregnant people. They are particularly common during the third trimester and during the night. Again, the cause is unclear. Potential causes could involve neuromuscular function, weight gain, nerve compressions, blood flow, or increased work by muscles.
  • #48 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    Nocturnal leg cramps impact 37% of the population over 60 years of age in America. Most commonly, the calf is the area affected. As a result of cramping, sleep is disrupted, and quality of life can be reduced. The exact cause of this type of cramp is unknown. Suggestions for a cause include standing at work and performing high levels of physical activity. Some predisposing factors could be electrolyte disturbances, neurological conditions, hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances or compressions of nerve roots. Drugs such as statins and diuretics could also be involved. […] Leg cramps are commonly observed in pregnant individuals, with them being experienced by around 50% of pregnant people. They are particularly common during the third trimester and during the night. Again, the cause is unclear. Potential causes could involve neuromuscular function, weight gain, nerve compressions, blood flow, or increased work by muscles.
  • #49 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    Nocturnal leg cramps impact 37% of the population over 60 years of age in America. Most commonly, the calf is the area affected. As a result of cramping, sleep is disrupted, and quality of life can be reduced. The exact cause of this type of cramp is unknown. Suggestions for a cause include standing at work and performing high levels of physical activity. Some predisposing factors could be electrolyte disturbances, neurological conditions, hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances or compressions of nerve roots. Drugs such as statins and diuretics could also be involved. […] Leg cramps are commonly observed in pregnant individuals, with them being experienced by around 50% of pregnant people. They are particularly common during the third trimester and during the night. Again, the cause is unclear. Potential causes could involve neuromuscular function, weight gain, nerve compressions, blood flow, or increased work by muscles.
  • #50 Prevalence of cramps in patients over the age of 60 in primary care : a cross sectional study | BMC Primary Care | Full Text
    https://bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-016-0509-9
    Cramps are involuntary painful muscle contractions that mainly affect older people. […] The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence and the main features of cramps among primary care patients aged 60 years and older. […] The adjusted prevalence was 46 % (95 % CI: 3853 %). […] Cramps are common in primary care, and although only a minority of patients report suffering from cramps more than once a week, many patients report cramp-related sleep disturbance. […] Given the high impact of cramps on patients quality of life, there is a need to provide data on their epidemiology in the context of primary care. […] This study confirms that cramps are a frequent problem in primary care. […] Nearly half the patients indicated suffering from cramps. […] Nearly one third of the patients declared being woken up by cramps.
  • #51 Muscle Cramps (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment)
    https://patient.info/doctor/muscle-cramps
    Groups at increased risk of muscle cramps: […] Up to 60% of adults report that they have had nocturnal leg cramps. […] The problem is often distressing, impacting on sleep, and has an adverse effect on quality of life. […] Pregnant women – up to 30% of women can be affected by leg cramps during pregnancy. […] Muscle cramps are common in children, especially at night. […] Those with metabolic disorders; for example, 50% of patients with uraemia and 20-50% of those with hypothyroidism complain of muscle cramps. […] Athletes and individuals working under hot conditions – eg, firemen.
  • #52 Best Evidence Review: Muscle Cramps — Painful, Common, and Neglected
    https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/725910
    Muscle cramps are common and are seen by physicians in a number of specialties. They can be very frustrating for patient and physician alike. In a study of patients in a general practice register, the overall prevalence of cramps at rest was 37%. […] This study also found that muscle cramps were more common among older adults. In a study of 365 patients with a mean age of 78.5 years, the prevalence of leg cramps was 50%. […] Factors associated with a higher risk of leg cramps included peripheral vascular disease, arthritis, and being female. […] Despite the long duration of leg cramps for many patients–or perhaps because individuals had become resigned to life with these symptoms — only 40% of participants in one study had reported their leg cramps to their practitioner.
  • #53 Review finds painfully few surefire treatments for muscle cramps | News Center
    https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2010/02/review-finds-painfully-few-surefire-treatments-for-muscle-cramps
    Most cases of muscle cramps never get reported to public health authorities, so it’s difficult to say how common they are. […] A thorough literature review conducted by researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine, published Feb. 23 in Neurology, confirms the FDA’s concerns. The resulting guidelines urge caution in the use of quinine, suggest the exploration of other possible treatments and encourage patients and physicians to pay closer attention to the manifestation of muscle cramps, which are usually benign but can sometimes signal more significant medical problems. […] The review covered only studies of muscle cramps that were unrelated to any underlying disease. Muscle cramps – typically in the calves, usually more noticeable in the still of the night and frequently experienced by pregnant women – often occur independently of any underlying serious condition. But they can be indicators of kidney or liver disease as well as neurological conditions, such as Lou Gehrig’s disease and peripheral neuropathy associated with late-stage type-2 diabetes. For this reason, people experiencing significant cramping are encouraged to consult a physician.
  • #54 Prevalence of cramps in patients over the age of 60 in primary care : a cross sectional study | BMC Primary Care | Full Text
    https://bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-016-0509-9
    Cramps are involuntary painful muscle contractions that mainly affect older people. […] The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence and the main features of cramps among primary care patients aged 60 years and older. […] The adjusted prevalence was 46 % (95 % CI: 3853 %). […] Cramps are common in primary care, and although only a minority of patients report suffering from cramps more than once a week, many patients report cramp-related sleep disturbance. […] Given the high impact of cramps on patients quality of life, there is a need to provide data on their epidemiology in the context of primary care. […] This study confirms that cramps are a frequent problem in primary care. […] Nearly half the patients indicated suffering from cramps. […] Nearly one third of the patients declared being woken up by cramps.
  • #55 Prevalence of cramps in patients over the age of 60 in primary care : a cross sectional study | BMC Primary Care | Full Text
    https://bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-016-0509-9
    This study emphasizes the need to develop and validate a tool for assessing nocturnal leg cramps, a better exploration of the consequences of cramp frequency variations on quality of life, a better identification of the risk factors, and an exploration of patients treatment expectations. […] Future research should provide guidance about the risk factors associated with cramps, and explore patients expectations about treatment.
  • #56 Qualitative, Patient-Centered Assessment of Muscle Cramp Impact and Severity | Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/canadian-journal-of-neurological-sciences/article/qualitative-patientcentered-assessment-of-muscle-cramp-impact-and-severity/BD9378489271C4590A307DAFC657257E
    There is an urgent need for new therapeutic options to treat muscle cramps; however, no patient-reported measures exist that capture the entire cramp experience. […] The prevalence of muscle cramps ranges from 37% to 95% depending on the patient group studied. […] There is currently a need for new therapeutic options to treat muscle cramps, particularly as the restriction of quinine sulfate for use in muscle cramps in the USA by the Food and Drug Administration has created a gap in therapeutic options for this potentially disabling symptom. […] In addition, the development of a reliable and validated tool to assess the severity and impact of cramps in clinical practice as well for clinical trials is also needed. […] Although cramp frequency has been used most commonly as a primary outcome measure in muscle cramp trials, a validated assessment scale that factors in not only cramp frequency but also duration and pain intensity may be a more optimal way to assess muscle cramps and measure clinically relevant change. […] Based on these data, we hypothesized that for patients suffering from cramps, there are more factors involved in cramp severity and impact than just cramp frequency. […] This framework will be used to develop a patient-reported outcome of cramp severity and impact.
  • #57 Qualitative, Patient-Centered Assessment of Muscle Cramp Impact and Severity | Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/canadian-journal-of-neurological-sciences/article/qualitative-patientcentered-assessment-of-muscle-cramp-impact-and-severity/BD9378489271C4590A307DAFC657257E
    There is an urgent need for new therapeutic options to treat muscle cramps; however, no patient-reported measures exist that capture the entire cramp experience. […] The prevalence of muscle cramps ranges from 37% to 95% depending on the patient group studied. […] There is currently a need for new therapeutic options to treat muscle cramps, particularly as the restriction of quinine sulfate for use in muscle cramps in the USA by the Food and Drug Administration has created a gap in therapeutic options for this potentially disabling symptom. […] In addition, the development of a reliable and validated tool to assess the severity and impact of cramps in clinical practice as well for clinical trials is also needed. […] Although cramp frequency has been used most commonly as a primary outcome measure in muscle cramp trials, a validated assessment scale that factors in not only cramp frequency but also duration and pain intensity may be a more optimal way to assess muscle cramps and measure clinically relevant change. […] Based on these data, we hypothesized that for patients suffering from cramps, there are more factors involved in cramp severity and impact than just cramp frequency. […] This framework will be used to develop a patient-reported outcome of cramp severity and impact.
  • #58 Qualitative, Patient-Centered Assessment of Muscle Cramp Impact and Severity | Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/canadian-journal-of-neurological-sciences/article/qualitative-patientcentered-assessment-of-muscle-cramp-impact-and-severity/BD9378489271C4590A307DAFC657257E
    There is an urgent need for new therapeutic options to treat muscle cramps; however, no patient-reported measures exist that capture the entire cramp experience. […] The prevalence of muscle cramps ranges from 37% to 95% depending on the patient group studied. […] There is currently a need for new therapeutic options to treat muscle cramps, particularly as the restriction of quinine sulfate for use in muscle cramps in the USA by the Food and Drug Administration has created a gap in therapeutic options for this potentially disabling symptom. […] In addition, the development of a reliable and validated tool to assess the severity and impact of cramps in clinical practice as well for clinical trials is also needed. […] Although cramp frequency has been used most commonly as a primary outcome measure in muscle cramp trials, a validated assessment scale that factors in not only cramp frequency but also duration and pain intensity may be a more optimal way to assess muscle cramps and measure clinically relevant change. […] Based on these data, we hypothesized that for patients suffering from cramps, there are more factors involved in cramp severity and impact than just cramp frequency. […] This framework will be used to develop a patient-reported outcome of cramp severity and impact.
  • #59 A general population survey of rest cramps – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7825490/
    Two hundred and eighteen subjects, out of 250 individuals taken from a general practice register, returned completed questionnaires giving details about rest cramps, and a further 15 were contacted by telephone. The overall prevalence of rest cramps in the survey population was 37%. The symptom was more prevalent in older subjects. […] There was a significant, positive association between rest cramps and symptoms of angina or intermittent claudication although these two factors only accounted for 12% of the variance, suggesting that peripheral vascular disease may play a relevant but limited role in the aetiology of rest cramps.
  • #60 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibers. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #61 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    Muscle cramps result in continuous, involuntary, painful, and localized contraction of an entire muscle group, individual single muscle, or select muscle fibres. […] Exercise-associated muscle cramps are the most frequent condition requiring medical/therapeutic intervention during sports. […] The literature does not clearly explain the epidemiology of cramps, as these muscular phenomena may appear differently depending on the context examined. […] The age of elderly people in France affected by cramps is around 65 to 69 years old. […] There is no relationship between sex and cramps. About 80% of the affected muscle area is the calf. […] Nocturnal leg cramps affect about 6% of the American population, whose condition seems related to heart problems and depression. […] The prevalence of cramps in pregnant women in China affects the calf area, with a percentage of 32.9%.
  • #62 Prevalence of cramps in patients over the age of 60 in primary care : a cross sectional study | BMC Primary Care | Full Text
    https://bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-016-0509-9
    Cramps are involuntary painful muscle contractions that mainly affect older people. […] The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence and the main features of cramps among primary care patients aged 60 years and older. […] The adjusted prevalence was 46 % (95 % CI: 3853 %). […] Cramps are common in primary care, and although only a minority of patients report suffering from cramps more than once a week, many patients report cramp-related sleep disturbance. […] Given the high impact of cramps on patients quality of life, there is a need to provide data on their epidemiology in the context of primary care. […] This study confirms that cramps are a frequent problem in primary care. […] Nearly half the patients indicated suffering from cramps. […] Nearly one third of the patients declared being woken up by cramps.
  • #63 Muscle Cramps (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment)
    https://patient.info/doctor/muscle-cramps
    Groups at increased risk of muscle cramps: […] Up to 60% of adults report that they have had nocturnal leg cramps. […] The problem is often distressing, impacting on sleep, and has an adverse effect on quality of life. […] Pregnant women – up to 30% of women can be affected by leg cramps during pregnancy. […] Muscle cramps are common in children, especially at night. […] Those with metabolic disorders; for example, 50% of patients with uraemia and 20-50% of those with hypothyroidism complain of muscle cramps. […] Athletes and individuals working under hot conditions – eg, firemen.
  • #64 What Is A Muscle Cramp? – Klarity Health Library
    https://my.klarity.health/what-is-a-muscle-cramp/
    Nocturnal leg cramps impact 37% of the population over 60 years of age in America. Most commonly, the calf is the area affected. As a result of cramping, sleep is disrupted, and quality of life can be reduced. The exact cause of this type of cramp is unknown. Suggestions for a cause include standing at work and performing high levels of physical activity. Some predisposing factors could be electrolyte disturbances, neurological conditions, hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances or compressions of nerve roots. Drugs such as statins and diuretics could also be involved. […] Leg cramps are commonly observed in pregnant individuals, with them being experienced by around 50% of pregnant people. They are particularly common during the third trimester and during the night. Again, the cause is unclear. Potential causes could involve neuromuscular function, weight gain, nerve compressions, blood flow, or increased work by muscles.
  • #65 Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/
    A multi-center American study reported that patients with COPD suffer from 46% of muscle cramps, which appears to be the major cause of pain in this patient population. […] Another multi-center American study found that 74% of cramps occur in athletes and in high environmental heat conditions. […] In Australia, 32% of children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A suffer from calf cramps. The phenomenon increases with increasing age.
  • #66 Muscle Cramps
    https://clinicalhealthjournal.com/muscle-cramps/
    A multi-centre American study reported that patients with COPD suffer from 46% of muscle cramps, which appears to be the major cause of pain in this patient population. […] Another multi-centre American study found that 74% of cramps occur in athletes and in high environmental heat conditions. […] In Australia, 32% of children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A suffer from calf cramps.
  • #67 Exercise Associated Muscle Cramps in Cyclists : Epidemiology, clinical characteristics and risk factors
    https://repository.up.ac.za/handle/2263/78530
    Background: Exercise associated muscle cramping (EAMC) is a common medical condition encountered by endurance athletes, yet information regarding EAMC in cyclists in lacking. […] Aim of the study: To determine the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and independent risk factors associated with EAMC in cyclists participating in a mass participation cycling event. […] The lifetime prevalence of EAMC was 30.6%, with an annual incidence of 18.7%. […] Novel independent risk factors associated with an increased risk of hEAMC in cyclists were: a higher chronic disease composite score (PR=1.34 per 2 unit increase; p0.0001), a history of any allergies (PR=1.17; p0.0001), a history of an acute onset injury (PR=1.31; p0.0001), a history of a gradual onset injury (PR=1.29; p0.0001), and increased number of years participating in cycling events of 2 hours (PR=1.34 per 2 unit increase, p0.0001). […] Risk factors for EAMC need to be taken into consideration when implementing prevention and management programmes of EAMC in cyclists.
  • #68 Qualitative, Patient-Centered Assessment of Muscle Cramp Impact and Severity | Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/canadian-journal-of-neurological-sciences/article/qualitative-patientcentered-assessment-of-muscle-cramp-impact-and-severity/BD9378489271C4590A307DAFC657257E
    There is an urgent need for new therapeutic options to treat muscle cramps; however, no patient-reported measures exist that capture the entire cramp experience. […] The prevalence of muscle cramps ranges from 37% to 95% depending on the patient group studied. […] There is currently a need for new therapeutic options to treat muscle cramps, particularly as the restriction of quinine sulfate for use in muscle cramps in the USA by the Food and Drug Administration has created a gap in therapeutic options for this potentially disabling symptom. […] In addition, the development of a reliable and validated tool to assess the severity and impact of cramps in clinical practice as well for clinical trials is also needed. […] Although cramp frequency has been used most commonly as a primary outcome measure in muscle cramp trials, a validated assessment scale that factors in not only cramp frequency but also duration and pain intensity may be a more optimal way to assess muscle cramps and measure clinically relevant change. […] Based on these data, we hypothesized that for patients suffering from cramps, there are more factors involved in cramp severity and impact than just cramp frequency. […] This framework will be used to develop a patient-reported outcome of cramp severity and impact.