Leg cramps are often aching and uncontrolled contractions of the muscle tissue of the leg. Do cramps occur in all muscles? Yes. They can not only happen in the skeletal muscle tissues (i.e.: the outside muscles of the body), but also the interior muscles, also known as the involuntary muscles of the intestine (bowel) or the urinary bladder. Leg cramps are also often called "charley horse" in common parlance. The leg muscles frequently affected by cramps are the types that traverse more than 1 joint. E.g.- the quadriceps muscles of the front of the thigh cross two joints- the hip as well as the knee. The hamstrings (muscles at the back of the thigh) also cross the hip and knee joints.
What causes them?
A good deal of work has been done by medical researchers in this field. Among the numerous causes found to cause these contractions of muscle tissue are differences in electrolyte balance in the blood. The most common illustrations of this occurrence are hypokalaemia or low blood potassium levels and hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels). Imbalances in these electrolytes cause muscle cells to expand due to ensuing osmotic changes. The other things which promote cramps are muscle weakness as well as extreme physical exercise. Both of these factors perhaps cause localized electrolyte/ lactic acid changes. Additional contributory factors are obesity resulting in greater weight bearing by the leg muscles, and some medications. Cramps are also believed to take place throughout pregnancy, especially when other conditions provoke cramps and in dehydration.
Methods to reduce or eliminate leg cramps
Experts and physicians, who have considered this symptom, urge proper hydration or ample consumption of water throughout the day and particularly during exercise or vigorous physical activity. It is also highly recommended to relax and take breaks during work outs to prevent lactic acid build-up in the leg muscle tissue. Stretching of muscles following work outs is also recommended. Sports advisors also advocate gradual increase in physical activity, instead of sudden bursts of exercise to prevent leg cramps. As an example, someone who usually goes on short walks should not attempt a marathon or long jogs. The victim of cramps should also have regular blood tests to examine the blood electrolyte levels, notably potassium and calcium.
Treatment of leg cramps:
Typical management of cramps consists of gentle rubbing of the affected muscles and warm baths. Both of these are regularly adequate to control muscle spasms. If this is not effective, the patient should talk to a medical doctor. Blood tests must be done to rule out electrolyte level changes. Among the primary medicines used for leg cramps are B complex-vitamins, naftidrofuryl and calcium controlling medicines. Quinine is also believed to be useful in this condition.
Closing thoughts:
Leg cramps though not a deadly problem, very often concern the patient and cause much pain and lack of sleep. Uncomplicated remedies and defensive actions are typically plenty to deal with this problem. Pregnant women are more prone to suffer from this condition, as are those who have abrupt and vigorous exercise.
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