Question 1

My son is a journalist and says he suffers from writer’s cramp. What is it and can it be cured?

Accepted Answer

Writer’s cramp is also known as professional or occupational spasm, as it can affect anybody who uses their hands for delicate work, such as musicians, artists and seamstresses. Commonly, the muscles of the fingers, and even the forearm, seize up so that work with the affected hand is impossible. Usually, the hand can be used, normally for anything else, which leads to the belief that it is a psychological condition. It is not linked to an organic or bodily disease. The best way to treat this form of cramp is to discover the underlying psychological cause, and to treat that. Sometimes a rest from work is the best cure.

Question 2

I only suffer from cramp on my annual holiday in Spain, although I exercise all year round. Why is this?

Accepted Answer

If you exercise vigorously in a hot climate, perhaps by playing volley ball on the beach, you will lose salt from your body along with the sweat. It is this lack of salt which causes heat cramps. Try taking salt tablets.

Question 3

My husband says I should wait at least half an hour after a meal before I go swimming. As I may get cramp and drown. I think he worries unnecessarily. Who’s right?

Accepted Answer

He is right. During digestion, the blood is concentrated round the intestines and away from the muscles in your arms and legs. So spasm may result.

Question 4

I am pregnant and frequently suffer from cramp in my legs night. Why is this?

Accepted Answer

Your muscles are under additional strain during the day to the unaccustomed weight of developing baby. So go into spasm at night as a result. Ask your husband to massage you, as you will not be able to reach. When you have had your baby, the attacks will probably disappear.