Once the muscle is allowed to rest or the internal trigger is no longer present, cramps will usually subside. Muscles often remain sore and tender even after the cramping has ceased. Alternative medicine is an appropriate first step for relief of muscle cramps. However, if your symptoms do not respond to natural therapies, the intervention of a conventional doctor may be necessary. Providers can alleviate pain by applying gentle pressure along meridians corresponding to areas of muscle cramping.
Acupuncture is a core therapy of Chinese medicine and one of the oldest known techniques of healing.
The acupuncturist stimulates particular acupoints corresponding to the patient 's complaint by inserting fine needles under the skin. Alexander Technique is a body-oriented therapy focused on improving posture and movement in order to reduce stress and strain on the body and help prevent future injuries. Special emphasis is placed on the relationship of the head, neck and back. Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants and herbs to treat muscle cramps. Peppermint or lavender essential oils can be mixed with a carrier oil and used for massage to relieve muscle aches and cramping.