Cramps Treatment and First Aid

Cramps are muscle spasms generally caused by exercising and loss fluid, for example, through heatstroke. However, they can also occur spontaneously, often at night, particularly in older people. Common sites for cramps include the sole of the foot, the calf, and the thigh. If the abdominal muscles are affected, the condition is known as a stitch.

TREATING CRAMPSA gentle stretching and massage of the affected area will help to relieve cramps. Give the affected person plenty of fluid and something salty to eat.

FOR THE THIGH
  1. Straighten the knee and raise the leg if the cramp is in the back of the leg.
  2. Bend the knee if the cramp is in the front of the thigh.
  3. Massage the affected muscle firmly.
FOR A FOOT
Often if the affected person stands on the foot with the sole flat on the ground, this may relieve pain. If this does not work, accompany this with gentle massage.

FOR THE CALF
Straighten the person’s knee and gently push the foot up toward the shin. Massage the affected muscle.