Ouch! That cramp at night
How often have we heard from a patient that they have been woken up by a painful leg cramp? That’s because about 30% of adult population over the age of 60, have been found to have this cramps and about half of people over the age of 80! These cramps are involuntary and can disturb sleep affecting the quality of life. This is because the motor nerves which send signals to the muscles go into a mode of rapid firing due to loss of motor neurons with age. AS such muscles are made up of 75% of water, 20% of protein and little amounts of minerals, fats and carbohydrates. Muscles help us in moving well, maintain posture of the body and help us being on our own with period of time. If the body gets enough nutrition, hormones and exercise muscles remain fit and healthy otherwise they shrink with age.
• Nutrition to the muscle is through Magnesium which helps them relax and prevent spasms.
• To improve circulation and reduce inflammation and also help in prompt recovery of the muscle, Vitamin E is ideal.
• Vitamin D is the ubiquitous supplement that can aid in calcium absorption and improve muscle contractions.
Homeopathic remedies like Plumbum met, Magnesia phos, Colocynth etc. prevent cramps and keep the muscles healthy and taut!
