Calf cramps are a common manifestation of leg cramps, caused by typically by dehydration or overuse of the calf muscles. Treatments for breast cancer can also cause leg cramps, as can alcoholism or hypothyroidism. Contact your physician if the cramps are severe, are not relieved by stretching, keep returning or last a long time.
Step 1
Stretch your calf muscle by standing and placing your weight on the leg with the cramp. Bend your knee slightly. If you can't stand, pull your toes toward your head while the leg is in a straightened position.
Step 2
Massage the calf muscles with your hands while stretching the calf.
Step 3
Walk around to relieve any muscle contraction causing the cramp.
Step 4
Take a hot bath. Heat may provide relief during the first spasm of the calf cramp. Place a cold pack on the muscle to provide relief after the pain has subsided.
Step 5
Prevent calf cramps by changing position often, drinking water throughout the day, stretching before bedtime and adding potassium to your diet. Foods that contain potassium include raw avocados, dried apricots, raisins, nectarines, cooked spinach, plain yogurt, cantaloupe and bananas.
Things You'll Need
- Ice pack
