How to Get Rid Toe and Leg Cramps
Anyone who suffers from toe and leg cramps knows how painful they can be. One minute, you are going along without a care in the world and the next minute, you are struck with the most gosh awful pain in your calf or the most awkward contortions in your toes. I got toe cramps so often that I became used to the pain and was more amused that my toes could actually bend in such a fashion. You may not be easily entertained as I am so here are a few tips on how to alleviate the pain and, possibly, avoid them altogether.
Instructions
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Vitamin deficiencies are a major source of all muscle cramps not related to neuromuscular disorders, such as Parkinson's disease. Increasing your calcium and potassium intake will greatly reduce the chance of getting cramps. Good sources of calcium are green, leafy vegetables, dairy products, and certain nuts such as almonds and Brazil nuts. You can also take calcium supplements. Root vegetables, some fruits, and meat are a good source of potassium.
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Staying hydrated is very important, especially if you are exercising or in hot weather conditions. Ask any football player! We have all seen them fall to the ground, writhing in pain as a host of medical personnel run to their rescue. (Man, what I would have paid to have those guys come help me when I was wrenched from a dead sleep with a Charlie horse!) Easiest way to stay hydrated? Drink water. Eight glasses a day is the golden rule for normal activities with increased intake for exercise and hot weather.
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Well-fitted footwear is also an effective way to slim the chances of getting cramps. I don't care how cute the shoes are, if they don't fit, don't wear them! Don't squeeze your piggies into tight, pointed-toe heels. Make sure your toes have wiggle room and reduce the amount of time you are in heels. Opt for flats as much as you can stand and save the new 6 inch heels (yes people, they are out there and the new trend in fashion) for special occasions.
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Stretching and exercising are also good ways to prevent cramps. Calf stretching, flexing your feet, and standing on your tip toes are some good examples.
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Okay, I have told you some ways to prevent them but what do you do when you have one already? Here ya go! These are the best solutions I have found.
Toe cramps- Get up and stand on your tip toes. You may have to do it several times but it should pass soon.
Leg Cramps - You see the trainers lift the leg above a football players heart and massage the area, but I haven't found that it worked for me ( no trainers remember!). The best solution I have found is to stand up and force my foot flat on the floor and then walk it off.
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Tips & Warnings
When wearing high heels, kick them off for awhile and do some foot flexes and toe stretches to eleviate some pressure. For good measure, drink a glass of water and eat a banana when you do it!
While the cramps themselves are not a threat to your health, the underlying cause of them could be if you suffer very frequent bouts with cramps. Talk to your doctor about them and concerns that you may have.
