Q: Is cramp a sudden, and involuntary muscle contraction or over-shortening? ¶
A: Yes, while generally temporary and non-damaging, they can cause mild-to-excruciating pain, and a paralysis-like immobility of the affected muscle. Onset is usually sudden, and it resolves on its own over a period of several seconds, minutes, or hours.
Q: Are cramps involuntary muscle contractions that occur in the calves? ¶
A: Yes, and soles of the feet, or other muscles in the body during the night or while resting.
Q: Is cramp in the calf muscle? ¶
A: Yes, and pulling the big toe gently backwards will stretch the muscle and, in some cases, cause almost immediate relief.
Q: Are cramps unclear? ¶
A: Yes.
Q: Are cramps more common in older people? ¶
A: Yes.
Q: Are cramps cardiovascular disease? ¶
A: Yes, and hemodialysis, cirrhosis, pregnancy, and lumbar canal stenosis.
Q: Are cramps variable with cramps lasting anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes? ¶
A: Yes.
Q: Are cramps likely to endure extreme muscle pain? ¶
A: Yes, and may be unable to use the entire limb that contains the "locked-up" muscle group.