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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Regular, Severe Cramps In Legs?

I have suffered from severe leg cramps for twenty years - sometimes more frequently than others. Just had a real whing ding about a half hour ago -- as I was getting out of a chair both legs cramped beyond description. -- front half of both thighs from groin to knee. Would have fallen if husband not here, lasted about 20 minutes -- The threat of these cramps hangs over almost everything I do -- What kind of a specialist might be of help to me and not just say - "everybody gets cramps"??

Fri, 8 Aug 2014
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement 's  Response
Hello,
Thanks for your query.
After going through the description, I understand your concern regarding your symptoms. Most of the time, leg cramps occur for no known reason, and they're usually harmless. In general, night leg cramps are likely to be related to muscle fatigue and nerve problems.

Infact, till date there is no clear cut evidence for the cause of muscle cramps. But the most common cited theories include -
- Altered neuromuscular control
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte depletion
- Poor conditioning
- Muscle fatigue
- Doing a new activity

In rare situations, night leg cramps can be associated with an underlying disorder, such as peripheral artery disease — in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs, Diabetes or spinal stenosis.

Self-care Activities that might help prevent night leg cramps include:
• Drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
• Stretching your leg muscles or riding a stationary bicycle for a few minutes before you go to bed
• Massaging the cramped muscle with your hands or with ice
• Walking or jiggling the leg
• Taking a hot shower or warm bath
• Foods such as bananas, potatoes, prune juice and dried fruit may be helpful in relieving muscle cramps

I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query.
Take care
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What Causes Regular, Severe Cramps In Legs?

Hello, Thanks for your query. After going through the description, I understand your concern regarding your symptoms. Most of the time, leg cramps occur for no known reason, and they re usually harmless. In general, night leg cramps are likely to be related to muscle fatigue and nerve problems. Infact, till date there is no clear cut evidence for the cause of muscle cramps. But the most common cited theories include - - Altered neuromuscular control - Dehydration - Electrolyte depletion - Poor conditioning - Muscle fatigue - Doing a new activity In rare situations, night leg cramps can be associated with an underlying disorder, such as peripheral artery disease — in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs, Diabetes or spinal stenosis. Self-care Activities that might help prevent night leg cramps include: • Drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration • Stretching your leg muscles or riding a stationary bicycle for a few minutes before you go to bed • Massaging the cramped muscle with your hands or with ice • Walking or jiggling the leg • Taking a hot shower or warm bath • Foods such as bananas, potatoes, prune juice and dried fruit may be helpful in relieving muscle cramps I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query. Take care