Everything to Know about Muscular Cramps in Legs

In today’s hectic work routine, health always takes a back seat. The sedentary lifestyle of corporate work culture has led to an increase in cardiovascular health problems. One common problem is muscle cramps in legs.

They are sometimes referred to as charley horses. These leg muscle spasms occur as sudden, involuntary muscular contractions that become pretty painful. Most people experience leg pain at night or have cramps in lower legs during intense physical activity such as running or jogging. Usually such cramps are harmless and can be treated with an ointment or pain relieving spray. However, if they occur frequently and toa severe degree, such muscle cramps hint at a critical health problem.

This article will discuss the nature of muscle cramps in legs and feet and the causes behind them.

What Causes Muscle Cramps in Legs?

Several factors can be responsible for muscle cramps in the legs. Some of them are listed below:

• Dehydration: Insufficient water intake causes electrolyte imbalances–these trigger muscle cramps in the legs.
• Overexertion: An intense workout, especially during summer, can lead to muscle fatigue and sometimes muscle tears. These can be felt as muscle cramps in the legs and feet.
• Mineral deficiency: A Deficiency in dietary minerals such as potassium, magnesium, or calcium can also cause muscle cramps.
• Medications: Certain medicines, such as diuretics and statins, can sometimes cause muscle cramps in the legs at night as a side effect.
• Medical conditions: Certain underlying health issues such as peripheral artery disease, nervous strains, sciatica or thyroid problems can also cause severe muscle cramps in legs at night.

What are the Symptoms of Muscle Spasms in Legs?

Given below are some of the symptoms of having muscle spasms in legs

• Sudden, sharp pain in the leg muscles
• Tightness or hardening of the muscles
• A visible or palpable knot in the muscle

What are the Diseases that Cause Muscle Cramps in Legs?

If you are experiencing sudden muscle cramps in your legs more frequently, they can be more than just a nuisance. They may hint at an underlying cardiovascular or nervous disease.

Here is a list of those diseases that involve occurring of constant cramps in legs:

• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): This disease causes the narrowing of the arteries, which reduces blood flow to the lower legs.This contraction of the arteries and lower blood circulation causes severe muscle cramps in the legs, which are felt during sudden movements like jogging and brisk walks.
• Herniated Disc: Nerve impairments such as lumbar spinal stenosis or herniated disc cause compress nerves in the lower spine, leading to the contraction of nerves and blood vessels, which causes sharp pain and continuous cramps in legs.
• Thyroid Disorders: Two types of thyroid disorders— hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can trigger muscle cramps in lower legs.
• Sciatica: This is a medical condition that causes pain, weakness, or numbness in the upper leg (thighs) and lower back due to pressure on the sciatic nerve. Conditions like a herniated disc put pressure on this nerve, which causes acute pain and discomfort. Often, pain from sciatica can intensify physical stress and tension, which feels like muscle spasms in the upper legs and pelvis. Besides, muscle spasms cause sciatica to occur more often.
• Diabetes: Diabetic patients often develop a condition called diabetic neuropathy or nerve damage. This is a reason for cramps in legs while sleeping due to poor blood circulation.
• Kidney Disease: Certain renal malfunctions disrupt electrolyte levels, contributing to muscle cramps in lower legs.

So these are some health issues that cause severe muscle cramps in legs. Moreover, certain medications like diuretics (water pills), statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs), and a few prescribed medicines against asthma can also cause muscle cramps as a side effect.

What to do if I Experience Continuous Cramps in Legs?

If you experience severe muscle cramps in your legs very often, you must not ignore the condition and consult your doctor immediately. Any underlying medical conditions may be the reason for cramps in your legs while sleeping. Early diagnosis and treatment with proper medication can help alleviate symptoms and cure the condition. Most importantly, self-medication can be very dangerous.

>> Also Read: Muscle Cramps: 4 Ways to Tackle and Prevent Them from Coming Back

When Should I Consult a Doctor in ase of Muscle Cramps in Legs?

If you are facing muscles spasms in legs, you must consult your physician only if–

• Muscle cramps are frequent, severe, or persistent.
• Other symptoms, such as swelling, redness, or weakness, accompany cramps.
• Cramps disrupt your daily activities or sleep.

What are some exercises to cure muscle cramps in legs and feet?

Given below are some exercises that can help you manage and prevent muscle cramps in legs and feet:

• Stretching: Regular stretching, particularly before and after exercise, can help prevent cramps.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and electrolyte-rich drinks, to maintain hydration.
• Dietary adjustments: Ensure adequate potassium, magnesium, and calcium intake through a balanced diet or supplements.
• Heat or cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected muscles can help relieve pain and relax the muscles.

These are some exercises that can help you remain physically active and avoid musculoskeletal problems.

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Note: This article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.