Health Tip: Coping With a Muscle Cramp

(HealthDay News) -- A painful muscle cramp can occur if you don't stretch before a workout.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends:

• Stopping any activity that led to the cramp.
• Slowly and gently stretching the muscle. Hold it in that position until the cramp subsides.
• Gently massaging the muscle while stretching it to help it relax.
• Applying heat if the muscle and others nearby are tight and tense.
• Applying cold if the muscles are sore and tender.