The causes of leg cramps are not always known, but generally caused by or associated with injuries while exercising, pregnancy, dehydration, lack of certain mineral intake, or exposure to cold temperatures.
Muscle cramps, whether occurring in the area of the feet or others, is a contraction or strained muscles with a strong and sudden. Cramps can last several seconds to several minutes and often occur in the legs. Leg cramps at night are often the calf muscles. This condition often occurs when you've just fallen asleep or waking up.
What causes the leg cramp:
- Lack of minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium may cause the leg cramps.
- Pressure on the nerves in the spine may lead to cramping pain in the legs which could worsen as longer you walk. Walking with slightly bent forward position usually can relieve pain.
- Inadequate blood supply. Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to your legs can cause pain, such as leg cramps while you're exercising. These cramps usually disappear soon after you stop exercising.
- Dehydration so the body loses a lot of fluid.
- Pregnancy. Cramps are common in pregnant women, especially during the last months of pregnancy. Scientist belief this happen due to lack of calcium and magnesium.
- Injury or excessive use of muscles. Prolonged sitting, prolonged standing on top of a hard surface, or put a foot in the uncomfortable position during sleep can also make the leg muscles tensing or cramping.
- Expose to cold temperatures, especially cold water. It usually occurs after a shower with cold water.
- The side effects of drugs such as birth control pills, antipsychotic drugs, diuretics, statins, and steroids.
- Infections such as tetanus can also cause muscle spasms and cramps.
- Liver disease can also cause cramps in the legs. When the liver could not work properly, the toxins in the blood will increase and may make muscle cramps.
- Other medical conditions such as kidney disease, thyroid disease, multiple sclerosis, or blood flow problems (peripheral arterial disease).
Here are some ways that can be done to treat and prevent cramps.
- Stop the activity and relax your muscles with mild stretching. Move your feet by walking slowly. The purpose is to send a signal in the body to contract your muscles and then relaxing.
- Massage on the muscles tighten.
- Compress with hot water or shower with hot water. However, this method is not recommended for those with diabetes, spinal cord injury, or other conditions that do not let your body heating.
- Drink water or drinks that contain electrolytes to hydrate the body. This method may take a longer time to be effective. However, it can prevent cramps in the future.
- Consumpt foods rich in magnesium such as nuts and seeds if you often have leg cramps that are not associated with other health conditions. However, pregnant women are encouraged to consult with your doctor if you want to take magnesium supplements.
- Take painkiller, such as ibuprofen or gel.
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