Cause of Exercise Associated Muscle Cramps (EAMC) — altered neuromuscular control, dehydration or electrolyte depletion?
M P Schwellnus
A review of current literature and research was conducted into the cause of muscle cramping. The two most commonly used hypotheses are the dehydration and subsequent electrolyte depletion theory and the altered neuromuscular control theory.
After reviewing previous research, it became apparent that the dehydration and electrolyte depletion theory was generally not supported, although only small studies have been conducted. Secondly, this theory does not offer plausible pathophysiological mechanisms to explain the presentation and effective treatment of cramp.
Evidence for the altered neuromuscular control theory is centered around evidence from studies in human models of muscle cramping, epidemiological studies in cramping athletes, and animal experimental data.
The author concludes that whilst more research is needed to confirm the altered neuromuscular control theory, current research suggests that this best explains the mechanism and symptoms of muscle cramp.
British Journal of Sports Medicine 2009;43:401-408
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