Leg Muscle Cramps

Leg muscle cramps are a type of spasm – a muscle contracts involuntarily and severely, and stays in this state for a period of time, causing pain and discomfort. Muscle cramps are quite a common problem, and they can be caused by a variety of factors. However, leg muscle cramps in particular are usually the result of too much muscle strain, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. It is usually a combination of two or more of these factors that causes a cramp in the leg muscles. In addition, certain medications can increase the likelihood of developing muscle cramps.

Getting rid of a muscle cramp is usually quite simple. Heat helps the muscle to relax, so you should apply a warm compress on your leg. Alternatively, a warm bath or shower will help the muscle to relax. You should also keep the muscle warm by wearing appropriate clothing, especially if the weather is cold. Massaging the cramped muscle also helps to loosen it, as does gentle stretching – touching your toes is a good stretching exercise for leg cramps. Remember to stretch very slowly and gently however, as any quick, sudden movements will only cause more pain and possibly injury.

All of us suffer from muscle cramps at some time or the other. However, if this muscle cramping is a regular problem, then you need to do something to prevent it rather than simply treating the cramps when they occur.

Staying hydrated is extremely important, so make sure that you drink adequate amounts of water in a day. If the weather is hot or if you work out a lot, you need to drink more water to make up for what you lose in sweat. In case electrolyte imbalance is part of the problem, you can try drinking a home made saline solution. Simply add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar to a glass of water, and drink this solution. It is also possible that you are not getting enough potassium in your diet. There is evidence that eating potassium rich foods such as bananas and tomatoes reduces cramping.

In addition, you should be careful to work out the right way. Spend a few minutes warming up before your work out, and after it, spend a few minutes stretching and “cooling down”. Also avoid suddenly increasing your levels of activity. While exercising, it is also important to breathe properly. Lack of oxygen can cause muscles to cramp, so pay attention to your breathing to make sure that it is deep and steady.