Leg cramps

Leg cramps are caused when the muscles suddenly contract (spasm) triggering acute pain and loss of control of the affected muscle. Leg cramps are common and usually occur when asleep. The cramp can last from a few seconds to 10 minutes. When the spasm passes, you will be able to control the affected muscle again. Pregnant women and those over 60 are most likely to suffer from leg cramps.

Causes of leg cramps

• Abnormal nerve activity occurring during sleep
• Excessive strain/exercise
• Restriction in blood supply
• With age the tendons in the legs become shorter and it is thought that when they become too short they cause the muscle that connect to them to cramp up
• Pregnancy and the stain of carrying extra weight
• Liver disease – as toxins build inside the blood, muscles go into spasm
• Infection
• Toxins – high levels of poisonous substances in the blood like mercury, can cause leg cramps
• Dehydration – Low salt levels due to lack of water in the body can trigger muscle cramp
• Medications – some medication can cause leg cramps

Treatment

Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause. For most cases of muscle cramp regular exercise during the day can help decrease the frequency of night time cramps.

During cramp
Try stretching and massaging the affected muscle. Straighten your leg and lift your foot upwards, bending it at the ankle so that your toes point towards your shin or try walking around on your heels for a few minutes.
Preventing cramps
Try the following exercise three times a day including once before you go to bed to help prevent cramp. Stand one meter away from a wall and lean forward placing your hands flat on the wall with your arms stretched. Keep the soles of your feet flat on the floor and hold this position for five seconds and then release. Try and repeat this exercise for five minutes each session.

If exercise does not help then medication can be given in severe persistent cases of cramp.

References

NHS
Sports Injury Clinic
Patient.co.uk

Disclaimer

All content on this page is provided as a general overview on the ailment and should not be used instead of seeking medical advice from your GP or other health care professionals. High Tech Health is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made from the content written on this site. You should always consult your GP first with any health concerns.