Foot cramps usually are temporary and pass within minutes, but they can be excruciating and interfere with your activities. Cramps occur when the muscles in your feet contract involuntarily and may be accompanied by weakness, tingling sensations or uncontrollable movements. A wide range of disorders can lead to foot cramps.
Causes
A brain or nerve disorder can cause foot cramps. Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and Huntington's disease are conditions typically associated with foot cramps. You may experience erratic muscle spasms when your body is depleted of sufficient vitamin D, potassium, calcium or magnesium. Dehydration and excessive exercising can cause the uncomfortable foot cramps. An increased level of phosphates in your system can lead to foot spasms, as well.
Minerals
While magnesium, potassium and calcium are vital minerals you need for strong bones, your body relies on sufficient amounts to maintain healthy nerve and muscle functions. Magnesium that's found in green vegetables, whole, unrefined grains and nuts and seeds is needed for muscle and nerve function. Potassium is an electrolyte that plays a role in proper muscle contraction, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some of the best dietary sources of potassium are bananas, tomatoes, avocados, lima beans and citrus juice. A calcium deficiency, often associated with a vitamin D deficiency also can lead to foot cramps because it's vital to proper nerve and muscle actions.
Vitamins
Vitamin D is needed for your body to properly absorb calcium and phosphorous. It's a fat-soluble vitamin that is stored in your fat. Five to 30 minutes of exposure to sunshine twice a week is sufficient to give your body enough vitamin D to prevent cramps and other side effects, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Effective dietary sources of vitamin D include most dairy products and milk fortified with vitamin D. Oysters, fish and fortified cereal also contain vitamin D. Bone pain and muscle weakness are common side effects of a vitamin D deficiency that, combined with low calcium absorption, leads to cramps in your feet and hands.
Treatment
You should talk to your doctor before taking supplements to treat a disorder such as persistent foot cramps. Various doses of minerals and vitamins may interact with other medications you're taking or cause additional symptoms. Additionally, treating the cramps yourself may cover up a serious underlying condition. When you're cleared, you may consider vitamin D supplements that most often are combined with the added calcium you may also need. According to Foot & Ankle Health, eating a diet high in potassium and calcium may relieve occasional foot cramps. Bananas, milk, cheese, fresh vegetables and yogurt are effective sources and often provide other muscle-enhancing nutrients such as vitamin D and magnesium.
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