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Read Dr. Elena Krasnov's Weekly Column in the Health & Fitness section of the 24 Hours Magazine. Look for new articles every week!

Monday, May 03, 2010

The Root of a Charlie Horse

Q: I am 29 years-old and for the past year I have been getting really annoying "charlie horse" type pains in my buttocks. About every few weeks the pain comes on out of nowhere and it is excruciating and then like it came it just goes away. Do you know what would cause this?

A: Muscle cramps like the ones you are describing could be from a number of reasons, but most commonly are attributable to an imbalance in minerals such as potassium or calcium and a possible interruption of blood supply to the muscle.  Hormonal imbalances, dehydration or side–effects of medications should also be explored. Other serious diseases such as neuropathies could be causing similar cramps but are unlikely if you are generally in good health.

A cramp should not be stretched statically (i.e., sit and reach) to relieve symptoms. They occur from muscle tightening. Despite popular belief, stretching a cramped muscle may result in a second-degree tear. The best treatment is massage increasing blood flow to help relax the muscle. When the cramp is released static stretch may be applied.

The muscles are the first place your body targets when you are dehydrated. Drink lots of water! I recommend purified water or mineral water mixed 50/50. The mineral water is going to put back into the muscles what they are losing on a daily basis. Remember to drink a sports drink or water while exercising rather than fruit juice, soda, coffee, or milk during active training periods. You can be really adventurous and create your own electrolyte drink by blending a banana with a dash of sea salt and purified water. Hydration is crucual before starting your exercise routine.

Taking Epsom salt baths few times a week is also very helpful.  Dissolved salts help to detoxify tissues and restore healthy balance.

You could also take Arnica 30CH, Traumeel or Wobenzyme PS as a general anti-inflammatory to lessen the pain.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online at 24hrs.ca

Co-written by Miranda Tallon-Malisani Holistic Nutritionist