POV: You didn't fuel properly and now your leg is paying the price 😬 This is what happens when your muscles run out of what they need mid-effort. Muscle cramps are your body's emergency shutdown signal. Here's what's actually going on: When you exercise without proper fuel and hydration, you deplete key electrolytes — sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals control the electrical signals that tell your muscles when to contract AND when to relax. When levels drop too low, that communication breaks down. Your muscle fires... but can't stop firing. That's the cramp. Dehydration makes it worse. Less fluid means your blood thickens, circulation slows, and your muscles can't flush out metabolic waste like lactic acid. The result? Prolonged, intense contractions that lock up and won't release. How to prevent it: Hydrate BEFORE you're thirsty — if you feel thirst, you're already behind Replace electrolytes during extended activity, not just water Don't skip carbs before intense exercise — glycogen depletion triggers early fatigue and cramping Stretch and warm up properly to prep your neuromuscular system Your muscles can only perform as well as you fuel them. Treat nutrition like part of the workout, not an afterthought 💪 ✅Follow @drdavidabbasi for More Daily Medical Content & Health Tips!🌴😷Schedule a consultation in Delray Beach! Visit www.primeorthocenter.com - @drdavidabbasi