Remedies for Nocturnal Leg Cramps

Cramps are painful episodes due to sudden, intense, involuntary contraction of muscle or muscle groups; usually lasting for few minutes followed by tenderness and discomfort which might persist for few hours.

- DR YASHODHARA EMBOGAMA

Calf muscles and small muscles of the foot are the commonest sites for cramps to occur. Elderly people are found to be more vulnerable to cramps. The term ‘nocturnal’ is used to define cramps which specifically occurs at night.

Etiology and presentation

Although the exact reason for cramps to occur is quite uncertain, Diabetes Mellitus, peripheral vascular disease, electrolyte imbalances including lack of Calcium, magnesium, Potassium, thyroid diseases, uremia, medicines like diuretics, nifedipine, β-agonists, steroids, morphine, cimetidine, penicillamine, statins, lithium and vigorous unaccustomed exercises are known to be playing a significant role. Additionally, ‘Squatting hypothesis’ suggests that the modern practice of sitting at rest or toilet unlike squatting like how our ancestors used to dohas resulted in the shortening of muscles and tendons along with inadequate stretching-of muscle fibres. Neurophysiological and electromyographic studies suggest that the spontaneous firing of certain groups of anterior horn cells followed by contraction of multiple motor units at very high rates can lead to cramps.