Muscle cramps are a common problem characterized by a
sudden, painful, involuntary contraction of muscle. These true cramps,
which originate from peripheral nerves, may be distinguished from other
muscle pain or spasm. Medical history, physical examination, and a limited
laboratory screen help to determine the various causes of muscle cramps.
Despite the “benign” nature of cramps, many patients find the symptom very
uncomfortable. Treatment options are guided both by experience and by a
limited number of therapeutic trials. Quinine sulfate is an effective medication,
but the side-effect profile is worrisome, and other membrane-stabilizing
drugs are probably just as effective. Patients will benefit from further studies
to better define the pathophysiology of muscle cramps and to find more
effective medications with fewer side-effects.