Leg Cramps: Causes and Remedies

Leg cramps can be caused owing to spasm or an involuntary contraction of a muscle in the foot or leg. A rigorous exercise session, exertion etc can lead to leg cramps during night. This can also cause build up of lactic acid.

For being able to ease a cramp, you must flex your toes. Relaxing exercises such as deep breathing can also help you be free of leg cramps. When more oxygen is released to the muscles, you can experience release of the cramp. You can also drain the lymph by massaging the leg in the direction towards the heart. This will improve blood circulation and to get relief from leg cramps.

One of the main causes for leg cramps is the deficiency is B vitamins. Also a lack of vitamin C can cause aching joints and muscles. By eating nutritionally balanced foods, such as green leafy vegetables you can get relief from this condition.

Another effective remedy for leg cramps is Chamomile tea combined with fresh ginger. By acting as a sedative for the nerves, Chamomile helps in eliminating cramps. This drink is rich in magnesium, calcium and trace minerals and hence improves blood circulation and brings warmth to the body. You can also avoid leg cramps to a certain extent by eating foods that are rich in calcium such as milk, yoghurt etc. By gaining fitness and proper body conditioning also, you can rule out the problem of leg gramps. This can be done after ruling out any form of nutritional deficiency.

You should also avoid sitting for long hours in the same posture to avoid this problem. Leg cramps can be caused by sitting hours on end in front of the TV or computer. By eating right and having small breaks during working hours, you can guard against this problem. If these recommendations fail to work for you, it is better to consult a health care professional to rule out any other underlying problem that is causing this problem.