Muskan

· 30 Dec 2021

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What causes leg cramps?

Leg cramps are painful, involuntary muscle spasms that can last from a few seconds to many minutes. They have an impact on your sleep, workout regimen, and overall quality of life. They can be caused by certain diseases and medicines. If you have a cramp, stretch the muscle, apply heat or ice, and massage the spot. Here we talk about leg cramps and What causes leg cramps?

What are leg cramps?

Leg cramps are sharp, involuntary muscular aches that commonly occur in the calf, foot, or thigh. The condition is also known as "charley horse". Your leg may tighten excessively because of the cramp. Leg cramps are frequent and typically harmless, lasting just a few minutes. They can occur at any moment, but many people experience them during the night or while sleeping.

What causes leg cramps?

Leg cramps that occur for no apparent reason are classified as "idiopathic" cramps. Leg cramps that are referred to as "secondary" are a sign or consequence of a more serious medical problem. The exact cause of idiopathic leg cramps is yet unknown. They might be caused by:

•    Involuntary nerve discharges
•    Blood supply restrictions
•    Stress
•    Excessive high-intensity exercise
•    Aging
•    Leg cramps are common in pregnant women both, during the day and at night.
•    Some medications, such as cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins) or blood-pressure medications (diuretics)
•    Not getting enough liquids (dehydration)
•    Some cramps have an unknown cause.

Leg cramps at night which are known as nocturnal leg cramps can be caused by a variety of reasons including:
•    Spending a lot of time sitting
•    Excessive use of the muscles
•    Standing or working on concrete floors
•    Sitting incorrectly

How to Get Rid of Leg Cramps

While cramps are present, a few at-home therapies may aid to reduce discomfort. Straightening and stretching the concerned muscle is the most effective approach to prevent cramps. If the cramp is in the calf, straighten the leg and lift the foot upward while folding the ankle till the toes point toward the shins. Leg cramps can also be treated at home using the following remedies:

• Application of ice or cold packs wrapped in cloth on painful or irritated muscles for 20 minutes.
• Massaging strained, tense muscles with heat pads or packs
• If discomfort persists after the spasm, using over-the-counter pain relievers or muscle relaxants
• If your calf muscles are cramping, walk on your heels.
• Massaging out with a foam roller or a muscle roller
• Massage the problematic muscles as well as those nearby
• Let the leg rest

Leg cramps may be inconvenient and painful. They can have an impact on your sleep, exercise regimen, and overall quality of life. They're frequent - in fact, quite common – yet, thankfully, only last for a short duration, and there are techniques and exercises which provides quick relieve. At last, avoid risk factors as much as possible, avoid drugs that cause leg cramps as a side effect, and follow the suggested preventive measures.


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