You are just about to fall asleep or already are asleep when sudden leg cramps make you spring from bed to stand painfully until they go away. The foot may feel like it is curling under itself or the intense pain in the calf or thigh may make it almost impossible to stand, but standing seems to be the only remedy. What's behind this pain?
What Happens
Leg cramps occur because of a sudden, violent contraction of a muscle. The muscles at joints, such as the knee and ankle or the knee and thigh are the most common areas where uncontrolled contraction happens. They can last a few minutes or longer. They also can reoccur after they appear to subside.
Causes
While there isn't a clear consensus about why leg cramps occur, there are some possible causes that have been observed. These include some medications, particularly steroids such as prednisone, fatigue in the muscles, overexertion during exercise, an imbalance of electrolytes, being overweight and dehydration. Stress or unusually heavy work---something you are not used to---also may contribute.
Prevention
Drinking lots of fluids, particularly water and drinks such as Gatorade, can help to prevent leg cramps, although doctors aren't certain about the connection between being well hydrated and leg cramp prevention. Stretching the muscles, particularly prior to workouts, also can help because it can relax the muscles that may cramp.
Relief
Aside from standing still and firm on a cramped leg, you also can seek medical help if leg cramps are persistent. While muscle relaxants may help, they also can have their own side effects or cause other problems.
Risks
While leg cramps can be both painful and annoying, they also can be indicative of other health problems. According to the Mayo Clinic, these may include artery disease and diabetes. Leg cramps occur more often in the elderly and during pregnancy. Also, if you have experienced an injury, muscle cramps may occur as part of the healing process. According to MedicineNet.com, this reduces movement to make the injury area stable.
