Some cramps are associated with metabolic disturbances such as hyponatraemia, hypokalaemia, hypocalcaemia, hypomagnesaemia and hypoglycemia. These words mean low levels of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium or glucose.
Cramps can be caused by Parkinson's disease, tetanus, diabetes and heart disease. Symptomatic cramps can also be caused by a number of medications. If you suspect a medication is causing cramping, talk to your doctor.
The medical community considers this type of cramping a separate category from cramping during athletic events.
Idiopathic Cramps
The word idiopathic means "arising spontaneously or from an obscure or unknown cause." It seems the majority of cramp sufferers experience this type of cramping, which includes night cramps.
In some cases, night cramps are so violent and prolonged the cramped muscle is sore for days after the incident.
Treatment of Cramps
Focusing on cramps experienced during athletic events, it's reasonable to ask if continuing to exercise after experiencing a cramp is a wise thing to do.
In many cases, exercise-related cramps are mild (as cramps go) and short-lived. By stopping the activity and allowing muscles to relax, exercise can often be resumed. Fortunately, reduced exercise intensity allows an athlete to complete the workout or race with no residual effects from the cramp after the event.
If a cramp is so violent and long-lasting that the athlete cannot continue without modifying their normal running gate or pedaling technique, it's possible to do more physical damage by continuing to exercise. For example, if the athlete continues to exercise and has to limp to avoid more cramping or pain, it's possible to cause knee, hip or tendon injuries.
More: How to Prevent Muscle Cramps in Thighs
If an athlete experiences a severe cramp that causes a limb to shorten and freeze, don't attempt to force the limb to straighten. For example, if the hamstrings cramp and the athlete's knee is bent and seemingly frozen in place, don't try to pull and straighten the leg. This can cause muscle tearing in the hamstring.
Should I Keep Going After a Cramp?
The answer to this question depends on the severity of the cramp. If you have a cramp that relaxes after a brief rest and you can continue without modifying your technique, you're likely fine to continue your workout or race.
If the cramp is debilitating and forces you to modify technique, you're probably better off to end the day and avoid causing further harm.
More: How to Breathe Easier During Hard Efforts
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