Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Tips & Warnings:
- If you're still suffering from cramps after 1 to 2 weeks, contact a podiatrist.
- If your foot is hot or swollen, or if you have a fever, consult a physician immediately.
- If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
Step1
Take the cramped foot in your hands. Slowly, but firmly, move it in the opposite direction of the cramped position.
Step2
Keep the foot in this position until the cramp disappears.
Step3
Spread some baby oil generously over the area and gently massage it for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step4
Take a pain reliever immediately, and if desired, repeat the dose after 4 hours. Aspirin and ibuprofen are recommended.
Step5
Elevate your foot on a pillow to the level of your waist.
Step6
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.
Step7
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.
Step8
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.
Step9
Rest and stay off your foot. Give the muscle, tendon or nerve mass time to heal.
Comments
artist said
on 1/6/2008 Foot cramps - before bed, I rub Vick's Salve all over my feet and put on clean dry socks. Started this a few weeks ago -- haven't had feet cramps since.
ldaniel said
on 10/12/2007 Drink 1/4 of a cup of Tonic water everyday and the cramps will stop. The quinine helps foot and leg cramps :)
conemark said
on 4/15/2007 I have the same issue as Flodis. My feet cramp when the blanket touches them in bed, and lately both feet have been cramping at the same time. I literally walk all around my house trying to get my feet back to normal. My blood work shows I have enough potassium, etc., so I have no idea what is causing this. I have rheumatoid and osteo arthritis, but when I mention the cramping, they don't feel it is caused by this?????
Help!
Muddy said
on 4/6/2007 I've found that my cramps seem to be relieved best by drinking a lot of water. My feet and toes were cramping so bad I was in tears. I drank a half liter of water and in maybe five minutes the cramps were gone (and stayed gone until the next time I was low on water).
FLODIS said
on 2/4/2007 i have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and my doc doesn't know why my feet and toes cramp so painfully, seems nothing I do, take tylenol, massage, helps. I am losing a great deal of sleep because of this cramping and the toes go out of joint when this happens, help please someone.