Good advice Lorie.

I wouldn't depend on muscle relaxers or benzos for severe muscle cramping and pain. You're right, muscle fibers can become glued together due to lactic acid build up (lactic acid is like Elmer's Glue). Sometimes the only way to break that up is with manipulation under anesthesia (MUA).

FWIW, I stretch everyday and do some exercises for my core everyday. And I do these before any other workout like resistance training or spinning. I'm 70 now and it really isn't a choice. We lose flexibility as we age, but it can be kept in check with diligence. And it's easy to find "how to" guides with an internet search - or if you can afford it or insurance covers it, hire a PT or personal trainer.

Finally, only stretch as far as you can without forcing a muscle. It will gradually get better.

Joe