Cramps commonly affect the muscle groups of the legs. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that cramps are involuntary and forcibly contracted muscles that cause sudden and intense pain. Different factors contribute to leg cramps, such as overuse or muscle strain. In most cases, medical intervention is not required to treat leg cramps, however, some underlying medical conditions can cause cramping. MayoClinic.com notes that physician consultation is recommended when severe and persistent discomfort occurs despite attempts at improving the condition with home care methods.
Muscle Fatigue
Muscle fatigue is associated with cramping in the legs after overexertion in sports or exercise. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that in athletes, cramps often develop in preseason when the body is not conditioned for engaging in heavy performance exercise. In non-athletes, engaging in strenuous exercise when the body is not use to being exerted intensely also causes cramping. Muscle fatigue results from depleted oxygen supply in the muscles, leading to contractions. Nocturnal leg cramps, which is cramping when in a resting position, can result from muscle fatigue. The Cleveland Clinic notes that when nocturnal cramps occur, stretch the calf muscles to alleviate pain or take a walk around the room.
Fluid And Mineral Imbalance
Dehydration contributes to leg cramping, according to MayoClinic.com. Dehydration refers to excess loss of water and fluids in the body. During athletics this is a problem as the body uses fluids more rapidly than it does in a resting state. Hot temperatures also make dehydration during exercise more likely to occur faster. Sweat drains the body of fluids as well as essential electrolytes or minerals, such as potassium, magnesium and calcium. Loss of these nutrients causes the over-worked muscles to spasm, or cramp. Use of diuretic medications can result in dehydration and mineral loss. To avoid dehydration during exercise, drink plenty of water or sports beverages.
Stretching And Massage
Stretching exercises can alleviate cramping and improve overall health to prevent future leg cramps. Massaging the pained area is also a means for alleviating leg cramps. The Sports Injury Clinic notes that targeted massage on the area of the cramp will relieve the contraction of the muscles as well as encourage blood flow. Stretches useful in preventing leg cramps include hamstring and quadricep muscle stretches. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests stretching each leg muscle group for 30 seconds at a time to extend the muscle and warm the area up before engaging physical activity. Should cramps occur during activity, use the same stretching methods until the cramp stops. Applying heat or cold to the muscle area is also a means for alleviating leg cramps.
Medical Considerations
Underlying medical conditions can cause leg cramps. MayoClinic.com indicates that inadequate blood supply to the legs contributes to cramps in the legs while exercising. Narrowing of the arteries may result in the low blood supply and should be medically checked if risk factors, such as smoking, unhealthy diet and obesity, exist. Compressed nerves in the spine produce leg cramping, which worsens during motion. In this case, altering position can reduce the pain of cramping, however, physician consultation is suggested to explore other options for treating nerve damage.
