Below the knee muscle cramping:
Most exercise associated muscle cramping is located below the knee and lasts less than 15 minutes with appropriate treatment.
- Offer oral fluids.
- Stretch and massage the affected muscles (PTs, ATCs).
- We can give the patient oral acetaminophen for pain if the patient has no contraindications or medication allergies.
- We DO NOT give ibuprofen or other NSAIDs on the course or in the medical tent.
If the patient is not responding after 15 minutes of treatment then treat for prolonged muscle cramping.
Prolonged below the muscle cramping/Above the knee cramping
- Elevate leg 12 inches above their core.
- Actively massage and stretch the affect muscles (PTs, ATCs).
- Obtain IV access
- Check I-stat sodium
- If abnormal (< 135) see Exercise Associated Hyponatremia page
- If normal (> 135) give D5 0.9%NS up to 2 L over 30 minutes.
- Patient should have normal mental status and be able to sit, then stand, and walk without symptoms
- The patient must urinate prior to discharge from the medical tent
Anticipated time in the medical tent: ~ 75 minutes.