Foot cramps indicate stress, fatigue or structural problems with the foot. An occasional cramp is not cause for concern, but chronic pain should be investigated by a doctor.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Pillows
- Analgesics
- Ice packs
- Elasticized Sports Wrap
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-
1
Take the cramped foot in your hands. Slowly, but firmly, move it in the opposite direction of the cramped position.
-
2
Keep the foot in this position until the cramp disappears.
-
3
Spread some baby oil generously over the area and gently massage it for 5 to 10 minutes.
-
4
Take a pain reliever immediately, and if desired, repeat the dose after 4 hours. Aspirin and ibuprofen are recommended.
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5
Elevate your foot on a pillow to the level of your waist.
-
6
Apply an ice pack if the cramp is due to overuse, like from a sports injury. Place the ice pack around the cramp, not directly on it.
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7
Use moist heat on the cramping muscle 3 times a day if cramping is chronic and persists longer than 24 hours. A warm foot soak may be beneficial.
-
8
Consider wrapping the foot with an elasticized cloth bandage or sports wrap. Be careful when wrapping under the arch--too much pressure against it can cause pain.
-
9
Rest and stay off your foot. Give the muscle, tendon or nerve mass time to heal.
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1
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