Causes of Lower Leg Cramps

Forceful or continuous contraction of the leg muscles can lead to cramps, which is characterized by a stiff feeling in the affected area. Let us take a look at the various causes of lower leg cramps...

It is natural for the muscles to contract and relax, as we make movements, but involuntary and sudden contraction of a muscle or a group of muscles can cause discomfort and in some cases, intense pain too. This uncontrolled contraction of muscles are called cramps, which are most commonly experienced in the lower legs, especially in the calf (the muscular back part of the lower leg). Cramps may or may not be accompanied by pain, but even if there is no pain, the affected person will experience some sort of discomfort or stiff feeling, which may temporarily affect the movements of the leg. These cramps may last for a few seconds or some minutes. Some people experience cramps only in the night, called night leg cramps, or after the intake of some particular food items. The causes of lower leg cramps may vary from person to person, but older people are usually more affected by these cramps.

What Causes Leg Cramps?

Lower leg cramps can be triggered by some medications and medical conditions. Such cramps can also be the result of pregnancy, vigorous activities like exercises or muscle fatigue. Even a long stay in the bed may cause cramps. The following are some of the common causes of lower leg cramps.

One of the most common cause of lower leg cramps is strenuous activities, which involves vigorous muscle contraction and expansion, leading to muscle fatigue. This may result in lower leg cramps, during the activities or after some time.

Tissue hypoxia is another cause of lower leg cramps. This condition is characterized by lack of oxygen supply to the muscles.

Awkward posture or position may also lead to lower leg cramps. Sitting or lying in an awkward position for a long time can cause the sudden contraction of muscles.

Varicose veins is a medical condition, which affects the veins of the legs. The veins become blue, swollen and twisted and can cause cramping, especially during the night.

Low levels of calcium, potassium or magnesium can be a reason for the occurrence of lower leg cramps. This is believed to be the factor which makes pregnant women and elderly people more susceptible to lower leg cramps than others.

In some persons, insulin is produced in excess amounts, which in turn causes lower leg cramps.

Excess fluid loss or dehydration due to perspiration, vomiting or diarrhea, can cause lower leg cramps. This type of leg cramps are more likely to occur during warm climates and may be construed as a sign of heat stroke.

Some medications, like those used to lower cholesterol and blood glucose levels can also cause such cramps.

Lower leg cramps can occur due to the inability of the muscles to relax, which is caused by a reduction in the level of an energy chemical found in the cells, called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Insufficiency of this chemical affects the ability of the muscle fibers to relax. This condition can be either inherited or acquired.

Usually, lower leg cramps last for a few seconds and in some cases, it may take up to fifteen minutes for the muscles to relax. So, don't panic. If these muscle cramps occur more frequently, try to understand the reason, like sudden change in exercises, regular strenuous activity, insufficient intake of water, consumption of certain drugs, etc. Home remedies for leg cramps include slow stretching and gentle massaging of the concerned muscles. It is advisable to consult a doctor in case of frequent lower leg cramps. This can not only help you to rule out the possibility of any medical causes of lower leg cramps, but will also help you choose the right treatment.