How to Relieve The Discomfort Of Leg Cramps

Leg cramps can be caused by many factors. Most people have experienced leg cramps at some time in their life. If you are not careful when standing up when your legs are cramped, you may find yourself riddled with pain, unable to move. Finding out the reasons for your leg cramp can help you to choose the right treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Massage
• Exercise
• Heating pad

Instructions

1. Determine what brings quick relief from leg cramps. If you have ever experienced leg cramps, then you know that it is a very painful feeling. When your legs are cramped you become immobile instantly. Knowing what to do in such situation, can relieve you from the painful leg spasm.

2. Stretch the legs to relieve leg cramps. When you are hit with the sudden pain of leg cramps, slowly stretch out your legs. Massage the area of the leg where the muscles are tightened. Massage the area gently, until you feel the pain subside.

3. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent leg cramps. Dehydration can cause leg cramps. Drinking plenty of water is beneficial to the body. This is especially necessary to prevent leg cramps. The recommended amount of water that you should drink each day is at least 8 glasses.

4. Check your diet to ensure adequate nutrients. Your diet also plays an important role in preventing leg cramps. Taking vitamin E supplement is also known to help prevent leg cramps. Foods that are rich in potassium, are also great for relieving leg cramps. Try to add potassium-rich foods to your diet, such as, cantaloupe, ripe banana, papaya, bell pepper, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes. The changes in the diet may not help everyone, but it does help some people. If it doesn't relieve the discomfort of the leg cramps, you will still benefit healthwise.

5. Reduce the length of time sitting in one position. Pregnancy can cause leg cramps also. Pregnant women normally experience leg cramps in their third trimester. To ease the discomfort of leg cramps, avoid sitting for long periods of time. When you are sitting, avoid crossing your legs. Do light exercises each day to help keep the blood circulating in your legs.

Tips & Warnings

• Applying a heating pad to your leg during a leg cramp can help tremendously.

• Stay away form caffeine if you experience leg cramps.

• Check with your doctor if you are experiencing constant leg cramps each day.