Constant Muscle Cramping

Pain & Rehab Forum [Moderated]
1

Hello Dr. Jordan, Dr. Austin

One of me clients has been experiencing muscle cramping during exercise, particularly in the lats, triceps, and abdominal region. The cramps tend to occur more during higher-repetition sets (more than 8 reps). He is overweight, with a height of 180 cm and a weight of 138 kg But quite strong, his squat, deadlift, and bench press are all above 100 kg and has been training for two years now.
This issue has been ongoing since he started weightlifting, though it does not happen consistently. However, when it does occur, it limits his performance, especially during movements that involve the lats and triceps.

We would be your recommendation in this case.

1 Like
2

Thanks for the post!

Sounds like an interesting situation. First thing I’d look into is to make sure they’re cramps vs. a pump. I have never seen a triceps or lat cramp personally, but if truly a cramp and something that occurs regularly, without additional cramps in the lower extremities, that is unusual. I would consider a medical evaluation in that case.

I also wonder, if not truly a cramp, if this experience is mitigated if the RPE is reduced, e.g. he’s further away from failure, and/or rest periods are longer.

-Jordan

2 Likes