Several circumstances contribute to the development of foot cramps during physical activity. In response, some salons and spas offer a pedicure targeted for people who suffer from foot cramps, called a sports pedicure. The service may offer relief from foot cramps for some athletes though it doesn't differ from a traditional pedicure to a great degree. If foot cramps occur often, talk with your doctor to rule out a health condition.
Causes
Running plays a role in the development of cramps for some people. Sports that require running may also produce foot cramps in certain athletes. This includes basketball, soccer and track. Overworking the muscles in your feet is one cause of a foot cramp, making it important to take breaks and avoid playing a sport for an extended amount of time. Poor circulation, an injury to your foot and dehydration are other conditions that could result in foot cramps. Symptoms of a foot cramp include pain, numbness and a hard bump where the cramp occurs. A pedicure is a good choice for relaxing your foot and easing the stress that accompanies overuse but is not a traditional treatment or cure for foot cramps.
Sports Pedicures
A sports pedicure is very similar to a regular pedicure but is marketed to athletes as a way to relieve muscle soreness, smooth calluses and keep toenails short to prevent bruising. A manicurist will first place your feet in a warm foot bath, often with Epsom salts, allowing several minutes to soak. Next is exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, toenail clipping and application of a foot cream. Most sports pedicures involve a massage to the feet and the lower portion of your leg. Once the lotion is absorbed and your feet are dry, nail polish is applied. A sports pedicure is an option for sore muscles but most are not designed to alleviate foot cramps.
Benefits
Unless you head directly to the salon for a sports pedicure in the midst of a foot cramp, the service is not likely to alleviate the pain. Regular sports pedicures may improve some of the causes of foot cramps. Massage is one form of prevention for muscle cramps, making a regular sports pedicure an option for keeping foot cramps from occurring. Rubbing the foot and leg area increases circulation, which may keep a foot cramp from developing.
Considerations
Despite the potential benefits of a sports pedicure for foot cramps, some salons don't follow proper safety and cleanliness standards. Look for a certified manicurist and a clean spa to prevent bacterial and fungal infections. Many clients bring their own tools, which reduces the risk as well. If you have any open wounds or blisters on your feet, avoid a pedicure until healing is complete, which prevents bacteria from getting in and causing an infection or illness. Contact your doctor if a foot cramp worsens or fails to improve with treatment.
