Independent risk factors associated with a history of exercise associated muscle cramps (EAMC) among 21460 cycling race entrants (SAFER XXXVI): a descriptive cross-sectional study.

The study is cross-sectional, so it cannot establish a cause-and-effect relationship between the identified factors and muscle cramps. All data, including the history of cramps and medical conditions, were self-reported, which introduces the possibility of recall bias. There was a significant difference in age distribution between those who consented to the study and the general race entrant population, with older cyclists being overrepresented in the study sample. The study did not capture specific details on medication types, dosages, or frequencies, limiting the ability to determine if the medication itself or the underlying condition was the risk factor. Cases with missing values were excluded from the analysis, which may have introduced selection bias.

The authors report no competing interests.

Do not assume that these factors cause muscle cramps. The study only shows an association. Additionally, the risk factors identified are specific to a mass-participation cycling event and may not generalize to other populations or types of exercise.