Hi Omega
Abdominal spasms and the "Stitch in the Side" can be caused by a variety of exercises and stretches, even excessive deep inspirations and expirations. They are generally caused by any of at least 13 muscle groups and are very difficult to isolate. Therefore, it becomes almost impossible to put a counter antagonistic move to release the spasm. The best move to try to alleviate the spasm is to lay on your back and place both arms under the head, grasping both elbows. Support the head by raising it as high as you can. Take a deep forced inspiration and hold it for a count of 8, then a deep forced expiration for a count of 8. Repeat as needed, until there is relief of the spasm. For the "Stitch in The Side", if the spasm is on the right side, repeat the above maneuver while pulling the right elbow and head as far to the left as you can. For spasm on the left side, reverse the above procedures.
http://www.doctorsexercise.com/journal/cramp.htm
- Muscle contraction occurs in response to electrical signals from nerves. Transmission of these signals is dependent on minerals such as calcium, sodium and magnesium, which surround and permeate muscle cells. Any abnormality in the flow of electrical signals to the muscles can cause a cramp. This may be due to imbalances in those minerals, as well as in certain hormones, body fluids and chemicals, or malfunctions in the nervous system itself.
- People who work or exercise in conditions which overheat their bodies are prone to depleting fluids and minerals, which can lead to cramping. Inadequate fluid intake and physical exertion (particularly when the weather is hot) may cause heat cramps. Without adequate rehydration and temperature reduction (a rest in the shade), heat cramps can progress to heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
- Diabetes and problems with the thyroid gland produce hormonal imbalances. This can interfere with the balance of minerals around the muscle and can also cause cramps.
- It is thought that a reduced oxygen supply in the blood may be important in the development of some cramps. This is more evident in smokers, where the blood oxygen levels are often lower than normal because of carbon monoxide inhaled while smoking. Smokers engaged in hard physical labour may find they experience cramps more often than non smokers. Severe cold may also induce Muscle Cramps.
The following may help relieve muscular cramps:
- Drink six to eight glasses of water every day.
- Begin an exercise programme. Remember to be aware that fluid loss increases during warmer weather.
- Practise regular stretching exercises, such as yoga, particularly before bed.
- Smoking may also provoke Muscle Cramps. Ask your Pharmacist or Doctor for advice about quitting.
Muscle cramping is most commonly associated with an imbalance in calcium, magnesium and potassium levels. The following supplements may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.
- Calcium - alterations in calcium levels may affect leg cramps, particularly during pregnancy. Calcium is required for normal muscle contraction. Calcium is particularly effective for Muscle Cramps which are active when resting.
- Magnesium plays an important role in neuromuscular contractions. Magnesium is involved in calcium function in the body. While calcium is necessary for correct muscle contraction, magnesium is necessary for muscle relaxation. It is therefore important to combine magnesium and calcium supplementation. The energy for smooth, skeletal, vascular and cardiac muscle contraction and relaxation is dependent on magnesium. Magnesium is particularly effective for Muscle Cramps which are active when pressure is applied or with exercise.
- Vitamin E may eliminate nocturnal leg or foot cramps and restless leg syndrome in many people. Vitamin E may also reduce Muscle Cramps due to exercise. Vitamin E is also useful for muscle cramps caused by poor circulation and varicose veins.
- Potassium is necessary for correct calcium and magnesium metabolism and may help relieve Muscle Cramps. Potassium is responsible for stimulating nerve impulses for muscle contraction and relaxation.
- Passionflower may have an anti-spasmodic and relaxing action.
- Valerian may help relax muscles. It is believed to have an anti-spasmodic, carminative and mild sedative action.
- Ginger is particularly effective for Muscle Cramps caused by poor circulation. Ginger is believed to be a carminative and anti-spasmodic agent.
http://au.health.yahoo.com/041101/25/1uw3.html?r=967673105
Kerry
