Muscle Cramps in Children: Care Instructions
Overview
A muscle cramp occurs when a muscle tightens up suddenly. A cramp often happens in the legs. A muscle cramp
is also called a muscle spasm or a charley horse.
Muscle cramps usually last less than a minute. But the pain may last for several minutes. Leg cramps that
occur at night may wake your child.
Heavy exercise, dehydration, and being overweight can make muscle cramps more likely. An imbalance of certain
chemicals, called electrolytes, in the blood can also lead to muscle cramps.
You can treat a cramp by stretching and massaging the muscle. If cramps keep coming back, your doctor may
prescribe medicine that relaxes your child's muscles.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your
child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
How can you care for your child at home?
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Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids. This can prevent dehydration.
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Have your child stretch the muscles every day, especially before and after exercise and at bedtime.
Regular stretching can relax your child's muscles. This may prevent cramps.
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Do not suddenly increase the amount of exercise your child gets. Increase your child's exercise a little
each week.
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When your child gets a cramp, have your child stretch and massage the muscle. Your child can also take a
warm shower or bath to relax the muscle.
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Ask your doctor if you can give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for
cramps. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
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Do not give your child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many
pain medicines contain acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
When should you call for help?
Call your
doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Current as of: July 17, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
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