Leg cramps are muscle spasms anywhere in the leg. They usually occur at night and can result in sudden, painful spasms. Read on the article to know more about leg cramps, their cause and their treatment.
If you are frequently bothered by leg cramps, check with your doctor to rule out medical conditions that may be causing the problem. Many different factors can promote cramping, including low blood levels of calcium, magnesium, or vitamin E. Circulation disorders, anemia (a low level of blood cells), and improper functioning of the thyroid gland can also cause leg cramps. Other causes include dehydration, heat stroke, inactivity, and strenuous exercise. Cramps can also occur for no apparent reason.
The most common cause that is typically seen in patients who develop leg cramps is exercising in an unusual way, meaning either more activity or a different exercise. Leg cramps are more common in young (adolescent age) and older (over 65) patients. Patients who weigh more are more prone to developing leg cramps. Also, some medications can cause side effects of leg cramping.
Here are a few tips that may help prevent leg cramps:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Doctors recommend six to eight glasses everyday.
- Massage your muscles before going to bed.
- Stretching can relax muscle fibers. Stretch daily, before and after exercise.
- Maintain a well-balanced diet and eat foods high in calcium (such as milk and cheese), potassium (bananas and dates), and Vitamin E (spinach and sweet potatoes).
Stretch and massage a cramped leg by straightening it and pointing toes upward, while gently rubbing the cramped area to help the muscle relax. For a calf cramp - charley horse - put weight on the affected leg and bend the knee slightly. For a thigh cramp, keep both legs straight and lean forward at the waist, using a chair to steady yourself.
A cold pack can be used to relax tense muscles. Following a cramp, a warm towel or heating pad can alleviate pain or tenderness.