A cramp or muscle contract is the involuntary contraction of a muscle or group of muscles that is sudden in onset and varies from mildly painful to excruciatingly so. It will usually resolve on its own over a period of seconds or minutes.

After the cramping has passed, you may experience residual tenderness for several hours. Cramps usually occur in the calf muscle, but they are also common in the thighs and feet. Most cramps are nocturnal, so occur at night while the body is at rest.

If this condition only occurs occasionally, there is no cause for concern. However, if they occur regularly, disturb your sleep and prevent you from functioning fully the following day, it would be advisable to see your general practitioner (GP). Other circumstances where you should immediately contact your GP would be if you experienced cramps after coming into contact with toxic substances.

CAUSES

Primary causes of cramps are idiopathic or of unknown origin. However, there are theories as to why they occur.

1. Putting excessive strain on a muscle, eg during exercise where the levels of lactic acid increase.

2. Putting a sudden restriction on blood supply to the affected muscle.

3. Abnormal nerve activity, particularly during sleep that causes the muscle to tighten up.

4. Shortened tendons that arise as we get older are thought to be a contributing factor.

Secondary leg cramps are caused by an underlying condition or cause.

1. Dehydration can lead to a drop in salt levels, which can trigger leg cramps.

2. Low levels of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium, and sodium.

3. Pregnancy, the extra weight puts a strain on the leg muscles. This is very common in the latter stages of pregnancy.

4. Obesity.

5. Liver disease due to the build-up of toxins in the blood.

6. Cardiovascular disease

7. Parkinson’s disease

8. Anaemia

9. Viral infections

10. Lumbar canal stenosis

11. Medications may also cause cramps, eg diuretics, satins.

TREATMENT

If there is an underlying cause of the cramps, your GP should treat it accordingly. If the cause is idiopathic, pain relief medication and exercise will help.

During an episode of cramp in the calf muscle, straighten your leg and point your toes towards your shin. Also, try walking on your heels for a few minutes. Massaging the affected area will often reduce the symptoms. If they persist, paracetamol or ibuprofen may be effective.

To reduce the risk of getting cramps, exercise and stretch the affected muscle three times a day. Your podiatrist or GP will be able to advise you on an appropriate programme.

The drug quinine, which was originally used as an anti-malaria treatment, has been found to be helpful in extreme cases of frequent cramps but should not be used excessively due to its strong side effects.

OTHER TIPS

* Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration (six to eight glasses daily).

* Drink pickle juice.

* Keep covering sheets loose at the foot of the bed to prevent your toes from pointing downwards while you sleep.

* Wear supportive, healthy footwear.

* Stretch your calves before going to sleep.

* Increase your vitamin C intake.

* Massage the area with ice wrapped in a towel for five minutes. This should act as good pain relief and reduce any inflammation. Some people find heat more soothing and suggest a warm bath.

* Always consult your medical professional before undertaking any form of treatment.

Angela Davis BSc (Hons) DPodM MChS is a podiatrist with offices in Montego Bay (293-7119), Mandeville (962-2100), Ocho Rios (974-6339), and Savanna-la-Mar (955-3154). She is a member of the Health and Care Professions Council in the United Kingdom.