Causes of Leg Cramping

Introduction

A leg cramp is a common, and sometimes extremely painful, condition in which a single muscle, or group of muscles, contract uncontrollably. Also commonly known as a charlie horse, a leg cramp can happen for a variety of reasons.

Dehydration

One of the most common causes of leg cramping is dehydration--when you do not consume enough water for the body to operate correctly. This can cause nerve hyperexcitability, which stimulates the muscle to contract.

Diabetes

Diabetes is another possible cause--especially common with painful night cramps. Diabetes related leg cramps are usually caused by either alack or an excess amount of glucose in the blood stream.

Activity

Large and sudden amounts of physical activity can also cause leg cramps. They occur during the activity or some hours after while the muscles are recuperating. They're associated with muscle fatigue and healing.

Minerals

The lack of certain minerals, most commonly sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium, is another possible cause. Each mineral is important to the ability of the muscles to contract and relax.

Injury

Injury to the bone or muscle are possibilities. In severe injuries, cramping can be a way for the body to stabilize and keep the injured area from moving. Another possible cause is the stimulation of nerves around the muscle.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy-related leg cramping can occur for a variety of reasons, including stress on the muscles due to the added weight strain, a change in blood circulation and pressure on and pinching of nerves due to the growth and expansion of the fetus.

References

• March of Dimes
• Mayo Clinic