There are very few unpleasant physical sensations that can occur with such unpredictability as cramps. This painful sensation is caused by several internal body conditions and external factors. Possible causes include overexertion of the muscle in question, prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, side effects of muscle spasms, and certain illnesses. Cramps usually come suddenly without warning or other symptoms.
The most common treatment for cramps would be stretching the afflicted muscle, though soft massage has also been known to help. Since some cramps are caused by poor circulation, heat is often applied. The heat has the effect of improving circulation in the given area, which can help alleviate the problem in most cases. Heat can also help alleviate the problem if it was caused by prolonged exposure to lower temperatures, but this is not always the case. A lack of oxygenation is also listed among the possible causes, though it is generally accepted that this is among the rarer ones. Certain minerals, or the absence thereof, have been tied to the problem as well, with potassium being the most notable. Potassium has been known to help prevent cramps, so...