Leg Cramps
Leg cramps are usually common, harmless, and only last for a short time. Although it can happen anytime, most people have them at night or while resting. Leg cramps happen when leg muscle shortens and causes pain, making it difficult to move. They appear for a few seconds–ten minutes, and affect:
- The calf muscle (below the knee, back of the leg)
- Thighs or feet muscles (less likely)
After the cramp, the muscle might feel sore for a few hours.
Leg cramps causes
The causes of leg cramps are:
- Aging
- Straining too many muscles
- Pregnancy
- Ceratin medications
- Dehydration
- Liver disease (Alcohol abuse)
Cramps self-care
- Stretch and massage the muscle during a cramp to ease the pain
- Regular calf-stretching exercise might help reduce cramps but won’t completely stop them
Consult a doctor, if
- Leg cramps disturb your sleep
- Swelling or numbness in your legs
- Cramps last longer than 10 minutes
- Having concerns or symptoms
Leg cramps treatments
After a complete examing, a doctor may suggest
- Stretching exercises, accordingly
- Tablets
Tablets are not suitable for everyone; discuss the potential risks and side effects with your doctor.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 23 JUNE 2022