Cramping of the lower leg or calf muscles while jogging is usually the symptom of a bigger problem. Dehydration and chronic compartment syndrome are possible causes of cramping. Treatment varies depending on the diagnosis, but conservative treatment is often very effective. However, surgery may be necessary in severe cases. If the lower leg cramping worsens or continues with conservative treatment, seek medical attention immediately.
Causes
Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and fatigue may cause cramping of the calf during jogging. More severe causes are chronic compartment syndrome and peripheral vascular disease. Chronic compartment syndrome involves pressure buildup around the calf muscles. This pressure decreases blood flow and may lead to cramping along with other symptoms. Peripheral vascular disease results from blocked or damaged blood vessels in the leg, which cause poor circulation and cramping. Jogging and other physical activities may intensify cramping of the calf muscles, regardless of the cause.
Diagnosis
Evaluate your jogging and exercise routine to determine if inadequate recovery time led to muscle fatigue and cramping. Passing dark urine is a sign that dehydration may have contributed to the calf muscles cramping. On the other hand, a physical examination and other medical tests are needed to diagnose electrolyte imbalances, chronic compartment syndrome and peripheral vascular disease. A physician may take a blood sample to diagnosis electrolyte imbalances, measure the pressure within the calf before and after jogging to determine if chronic compartment syndrome is the cause, or perform an ultrasound for a peripheral vascular disease diagnosis.
Treatments
Stop jogging immediately if cramping of the calf muscle does occur. Rest, ice and stretch to reduce the cramping, especially if fatigue is the primary cause. If you are dehydrated, drink water or a sports drink to rehydrate. For treatment of an electrolyte imbalance such as low potassium or low sodium, eat a banana or take a salt tablet, respectively. Conservative treatment for chronic compartment syndrome is physical therapy, but in some cases surgery is needed to reduce the pressure and cramping. Weight loss and a physician-approved exercise program may help treat peripheral vascular disease, but surgery may be used to remove the blockage and return normal blood flow.
Prevention
Cramping of the calf muscles may be avoided during jogging. Maintain a healthy weight, eat a well-rounded diet and drink at least eight glasses of water daily. Allow plenty of recovery time between jogging sessions and increase mileage slowly to allow muscles to adapt. Lastly, include a warm-up, cool-down and stretch routine on the days you jog to reduce the risk of cramping.
