Modern research, such as the review in the Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology , highlights two primary theories:

: Proposes that a loss of fluids and minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium) causes the spaces between muscle cells to contract, putting pressure on nerve endings. While common as a "folk remedy," recent studies show hydration levels often don't correlate with exercise-induced cramps.

According to research published in StatPearls , these are primarily caused by : Muscle Cramps and Cycling. More questions than answers

: Suggests that muscle fatigue causes an imbalance in the spinal reflex. Specifically, the "excitatory" signals from muscle spindles increase while the "inhibitory" signals from Golgi tendon organs decrease, leading the motor neurons in your spinal cord to fire uncontrollably.

The scientific cause of cramps depends on whether they are skeletal (muscle) or menstrual. While exact mechanisms are still debated, research points to or chemical triggers like prostaglandins. Skeletal Muscle Cramps (e.g., Leg Cramps)