6 Ways to Avoid Muscle Cramps

Something as simple as heat or massage can strong-hand cramps into submission. Once the agony is over, it's important to mount an anti-cramp campaign. Your body is probably yearning for potassium, magnesium, and calcium — the trio of minerals that helps regulate activity in your nerves and muscles. (You have potassium aplenty if you eat fruits and veggies, but you may be potassium poor if you're on a high-protein diet.) You'll also need to drink plenty of water and stretch your limits regularly.

By Marianne Wait From: 1,801 Home Remedies

1. Put the Heat On


Place an electric heating pad or a hot washcloth on the misbehaving muscle to relax the cramp and increase blood flow to the affected tissue. Set the pad on low, apply for 20 minutes, then remove it for at least 20 minutes before reapplying.

Take a long, warm shower, or soak in the bath. For added relief, pour in a half-cup Epsom salt. The magnesium in Epsom salt promotes muscle relaxation.


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