What Causes Leg Cramps?

By kyle

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14170-leg-cramps
• 2. https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-relief/what-causes-leg-cramps
• 3. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/take-that-muscle-cramps

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Sudden, sharp pain in your legs can be difficult to understand and may seem unavoidable. Whether you commonly experience leg cramps or just encountered your first one, it’s time to learn more about these unpleasant episodes.

Find out more about some of the most common causes and symptoms of cramps. Discover how you can reduce the risk of occurrence and manage the pain of these spasms throughout the day and night. Use this knowledge to control your misery and take steps to curtail further cramps. Don’t let debilitating leg pain stop you from exercising and enjoying a peaceful night’s sleep.

1. Symptoms of Leg Cramps

Cramps are an involuntary muscle spasm that causes intense discomfort and pain.¹https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14170-leg-cramps These cramps rarely have any warning signs and can involve your entire leg. Your thigh, calf and foot can all be affected in a tight, painful spasm. Just like cramps in other parts of your body, leg cramps affect the muscles and come with no warning.

These experiences rarely cause serious or long-term issues. While painful, the spasm typically doesn’t last long and generally doesn’t damage your muscles or cause other serious issues. The pain can feel like your muscles are clenching, contracting or tightening into a knot. In severe cases, the muscles may be sore for hours after the cramp.