What Causes Locking Of The Fingers And Lower Leg Cramps?

Posted on Sat, 13 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 13 Jun 2015 Answered on

Fri, 3 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have my fingers in both hand locked frequently
I got lower leg cramps once in while especially at night
What should I do or take ?

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (51 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Tendon shortening and possible electrolyte and fluid imbalance

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

1. Usually no identifiable cause is present in case of locked fingers or cramps.
2. Possibly cause identified, is shortening of tendons/ muscles due to reduced activity and aging.
3. Stretching of involved muscle group, daily twice and especially before going to sleep will be helpful.
4. Also to improve muscle activity calcium and potassium supplements, with good hydration (at least 6-8 liters of water per day) will be helpful. Food rich in potassium like banana, avocada, nuts, etc. will be helpful.

If finger locking, becomes painful and frequent, release surgery might be necessary. It appears to be possible early stages and stretching will be helpful.

Hope it helps.
Any further queries, here to help again.

Dr. Prakash HM

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar