If you are experiencing foot cramps during exercise, your body may not yet be conditioned to handle the type of activity you are doing. You can use stretching exercises to prevent cramping as your body becomes accustomed to your exercise routine. Drink plenty of fluids throughout exercise to combat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances since this may also cause cramping.
Features
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, muscle cramping is common in athletes at the end of intense physical activity. Cramping may occur toward the end of the workout session, or symptoms may occur four to six hours later. Although any type of exercise can produce foot cramping, endurance forms of exercise are more likely to produce symptoms.
Treatment
If you do feel cramping in your feet as you work out, stop the exercise. Sit and massage your foot until you feel relief from the cramp. If the cramping persists, apply a heating pad for 15-minute intervals to reduce the tension in the muscles. Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, as needed if the discomfort persists.
Prevention
Perform foot and ankle stretches prior to exercise to prevent cramping. For instance, you may perform heel lifts before your workout. To do the exercise, stand facing a wall with your hands lightly pressed against the surface to remain balanced. Lift your right leg into the air. Lift your body weight onto the toes of your left foot. Hold the stretch for five seconds and lower the feet to the floor. Repeat the move 10 times for each foot.
Considerations
An underlying disorder could cause the foot cramping. For instance, if you suffer from a potassium deficiency called hypokalemia, muscle cramping may occur. When you exercise, you deplete electrolytes in your body, such as potassium, through sweat. Additional symptoms include abnormal heart function, stomach upset, weakness and fatigue. Dietary sources you can use to treat potassium deficiency include bananas, fish, sports drinks, citrus juices, poultry, beef and tomatoes.
