Muscle cramp

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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

A muscle cramp is a sudden and involuntary contraction of one or more of your muscles. Muscle cramps can result in intense pain and leave you temporarily unable to use the affected muscles.

Common causes of muscle cramps include overuse and dehydration during physical activity in warm weather. Some medications and certain medical conditions also may cause muscle cramps.

You can usually treat muscle cramps at home with self-care measures.

DS00311

July 17, 2008

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