Cramps in the feet and legs can cause painful reactions that may last for moments at a time. Muscle cramps occur when muscles fail to relax and involuntarily contract. Cramping may include the entire muscle, parts of a muscle or whole muscle groups. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that the medical community does not know the cause of muscle cramps. However, certain conditions or situations can increase the likelihood of experiencing leg and foot cramps.
Muscle Loss
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that people normally lose muscle mass starting in their 40s, often because they fail to exercise. As a result, the muscles do not work as effectively or quickly, especially when confronted with sudden changes in physical activity. Worn muscles within the body do not respond to sudden changes in temperature or strenuous exercise, which can lead to foot and leg cramps.
Physical Exertion
Endurance athletes, including long-distance runners or older people not used to strenuous physical activity, can experience muscle cramps. For athletes, leg and muscle cramps occur following inadequate stretching and intense exercise. While exercising, inadequate blood supply can produce narrowing in the legs by narrowing the arteries, reports MayoClinic.com. Although foot and leg cramps may go away after exercising, poor blood circulation can increase the risk of heart disease.
Underlying Factors
Excess heat can cause leg and foot cramps. Dehydration or depletion of minerals and salt can occur when exercising or working in the sun, states the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. As a result, insufficient amounts of fluid tend to initiate muscle spasms. Muscle cramps within the legs and feet may also develop in people with low amounts of calcium, magnesium or potassium in their diets. In addition, some diuretics for high blood pressure can create potassium loss. Compression of spinal nerves can cause cramping in the leg, according to MayoClinic.com. Conditions such as diabetes, low blood sugar, kidney disorder, nerve damage and hormonal imbalances can lead to muscle cramping in lower extremities, such as the legs and foot.
