What technique can be used to assist a swimmer with a leg cramp?

Assisting a swimmer with a leg cramp involves an immediate focus on alleviating the discomfort and helping them regain control over their body. Stretching the cramped muscle is a practical technique that can relieve the cramp by elongating the muscle fibers, which helps reduce the tightness and discomfort experienced during the cramp.

When a leg cramp occurs, it's essential to gently stretch the affected leg muscle. For example, if it's a calf cramp, the swimmer can be encouraged to flex their toes upwards while supporting their leg. This action targets the muscle that is cramped, helping it to relax and ease the tension, making it easier for the swimmer to regain their composure.

Other techniques, while they may seem helpful, do not directly address the immediate need for muscle relaxation. Helping the swimmer to float can provide some support, but if the cramp remains untreated, floating alone won’t resolve the issue. Pulling the swimmer to shore is not advisable in this situation as it might create more panic and discomfort for them. Lastly, encouraging the swimmer to swim through the pain could exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to further distress or injury. Thus, focusing on stretching the muscle provides a practical and effective method for resolution.