How to Stop Nocturnal Leg Cramps

Contributor

By Christina Barber
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (2 Ratings)

Many people experience painful leg cramps that seemingly spring up out of nowhere in the middle of the night. These distressing muscle cramps usually affect the calf muscle, but can also include the toes and upper leg muscles as well.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Start with a good stretch to help ease leg muscle tightness. Face the wall, standing just about the length of your arms away.
Step 2

Place your hands onto the wall, and with your heels firmly on the ground, move your chest into the wall (as if doing a push-up). This should place a good stretch on the calf muscles. If you do not feel a slight stretch, move your feet further back. Repeat three times.
Step 3

For another good stretch, stand balanced on both legs. Gently pick up one leg, grabbing the knee with your hands. Hold for a count of five. If you cannot balance, lean on a wall for extra support.
Step 4

Add calcium-magnesium supplements to your cramp prevention plan. Take calcium-magnesium tablets or the powdered form called Dolomite Powder before bed. Take one tablet with water, or take one teaspoon of Dolomite Powder mixed with milk or juice.

Tips & Warnings

People are often told that leg cramps are due to a potassium deficiency. However, this is generally only true if you are on a high-protein, low-carb diet. A regular diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables will provide you with the potassium that you need.
Always seek medical advice from your doctor before beginning any exercise routine, or before taking over the counter supplements. When purchasing supplements, in particular Dolomite Powder, be sure to buy from a trusted source (typically a health food store) to ensure you are getting a pure product. There is some concern that Dolomite Powder could contain lead, which is why it is important if you are using Dolomite, to be certain it has been tested and does not contain trace elements in addition. One brand, KAL, is a trusted and tested provider of quality Dolomite Powder. Dolomite Powder contains iron. Use caution and only take prescribed amount.