There’s nothing like getting a good night’s sleep. You wake up feeling refreshed and invigorated. Unfortunately, some people don’t get to experience that. They suffer from leg cramps that aren’t just painful but annoying and disruptive.
What are leg cramps?
Also known as muscle cramps, leg cramps are just what they sound like. This involves the muscles in one or both legs seizing up. Sometimes, the cramping is mild but other times, debilitating. On any level, they’re not something anyone wants to experience.
What causes leg cramps?
There are several reasons for this happening. The three most common causes include a compressed nerve, inadequate blood supply to the leg, and a low level of potassium or some other mineral. Regardless, if you suffer from leg cramps and don’t get relief from home remedies, you should see a doctor. This is especially true if you notice redness, swelling, or anything else out of the ordinary.
Natural remedies
Fortunately, a lot of people get relief from leg cramps with self-care. The following are some of the options that typically get good results.
Hydration
Something as simple as drinking at least eight full glasses of water a day can help. If needed, you can add a little flavor using lime, lemon, or berries. If the body isn’t properly hydrated, it can lead to a problem of leg cramps.
Electrolytes
These consist of minerals the body needs. Included are sodium, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. For this, you can take quality vitamins or eat certain foods. If you have low potassium, which is a common cause of leg cramps, bananas are excellent. Another option is to consume a sports drink loaded with electrolytes.
Vitamin E
Taking vitamin E capsules helps improve the blood flow whenever there’s an issue of blocked arteries. Along with eating avocados, almonds, and spinach, which are high in this vitamin, have your doctor check your level. You might need to start taking supplements.
Stretching
Stretching is another great way to stop leg cramps. If you wake up with pain, get out of bed and stretch. It could also help to do this before you retire for the night. Usually, the cramping will go away immediately.
Heat
You’ll also find the application of heat helps to lessen the pain of leg cramps. For this, you can either use a heating pad for 15 to 20 minutes or microwave a wet hand towel to place directly on the area. Just be careful not to get it too hot. Another remedy is to soak in a hot bath with Epsom salts.
Wintergreen oil
Sold at most drug stores and homeopathic shops, this oil works wonders. The primary ingredient, methyl salicylate, stimulates the blood flow. All you need to do is mix a small amount of oil with either almond or olive oil and massage it into the area.
Take control
With so many solutions, there’s no reason to suffer from leg cramps. Unless there are other worrying signs, start by trying some of these natural remedies. But as mentioned, if the cramping persists, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care physician.
Just imagine going to bed and sleeping all night. That sounds pretty good, right? You can. Now’s the time to take action and conquer painful leg cramps once and for all.
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Source: Shareably, Mayo Clinic
