Leg Cramps

Leg cramps are painful and uncomfortable muscle contraction in the leg area. It generally occurs on the calf, hamstring and quadriceps muscles.

It is experienced in all age groups, although it mostly occurs on the older patients. It usually lasts for less than a minute, and sometimes extend for several more minutes depending on the severity of the condition.

Symptoms
There is muscle tenderness and severe leg pain when having leg cramps. The patient is unable to move their leg for a certain period of time.

Causes
Exact causes of leg cramps are difficult to determine, although some of the factors contributing to it are as follows: dehydration, obesity, low blood level supply, muscle overexertion, nerve and muscle disorders, drug side-effects such as those using diuretics, and imbalances in fluid, electrolytes, and hormones.

Home Remedies
Massage and stretch the sore muscles to lessen the pain and contraction.

Taking a hot shower or warm bath will relax the muscles.

Apply cold packs on the affected area to relax the tensed muscles.

Place a heating pad or warm towel on a cramping muscle to alleviate the pain.

Diets
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Consume foods that are rich in calcium and potassium.

Further Suggestions
Drink plenty of fluids when exercising for dehydration causes leg cramps.

Do stretches prior to your exercise routine to help relax the muscles and thus prevent leg cramp.

Do your muscle stretches slowly while doing your workout for sudden physical movements causes leg cramps.

Roll up bed sheets and place them at your feet when sleeping. This will prevent your feet and toes from pointing downward and cause muscle misalignment.

Do a little cycling exercise for a few minutes before bedtime to prevent cramps from developing over the night.