This Is Why You Have Leg Cramps at Night and How to Fix This ProblemUnfortunately, a great percentage of people experience leg cramps at night. Besides being rather uncomfortable and painful, this health problem can prevent one from having a good night’s sleep. These rapid muscle spasms or contractions are usually felt in the thighs, feet, and calves. They can happen soon after a person falls asleep or before waking up in the morning and the cramping can last for up to a few minutes. When the cramping stops, the muscles remain tensed and tight and can be sensitive to touch and movement.Leg Cramps vs. Restless Leg SyndromeVery often, people think that this is one and the same health problem. However, they are completely different, i.e. people experience bigger pain when they try to move their legs during cramps whereas in the case of restless leg syndrome, people feel relieved when they move their legs.Potential Causes of Leg CrampsEven though the precise reason for leg cramps is not yet discovered, some scientists believe that specific health problems, conditions, and activities can cause this painful experience. These are some of them:PregnancyInjuryDehydrationMagnesium deficiencyPotassium deficiencyKidney diseaseCalcium deficiencyMuscle overloadPoor blood circulationThyroid gland problemsExtensive exposure to low temperaturesSome pharmaceutical drugsNatural Methods for Treatment of Muscle CrampsRegular physical activityTo relax the muscles and prevent cramping, avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time and make sure you take a 10- to 30-minute walk on a daily basis.StretchingIf you are experiencing a leg cramp, begin to stretch the muscle and gently rub the area.Drink more waterTo prevent dehydration, you need to drink enough water throughout the day.Acupuncture or massageAcupuncture and massage are known to have a soothing and relaxing effect on the muscles, which directly deals with the root of the problem.Intake more magnesiumMagnesium is an important nutrient which has the power to prevent muscle spasms. You can get it from eating more seeds and nuts or by rubbing the legs with magnesium oil. You can also opt for quality magnesium supplements.Epsom salt bathEpsom salt baths can be of great aid for people who have this problem. The soaking will soothe the muscles and supply the body with magnesium.Immediate Relief for Leg CrampsMove the leg if possible to better the circulationRub the area gently to relax itSit on the floor and extend the legs and flex the feet at the ankles and then drag the feet with the hands to stretch the musclesMake sure you have a good airflow while you are sleeping, i.e. opt for quality blankets, pajamas, and sheets bestfolkmedicinebestfolkmedicineTweetSharePin It
This Is Why You Have Leg Cramps at Night and How to Fix This Problem
