21/07/2026
Restless Leg 4
Leg Cramps
Leg cramps are common, usually harmless and only last a short time. They can happen at any time, but most people have them at night or when resting. Leg cramps happen when a muscle in the leg tightens and causes a sudden pain that can make it hard to move. The cramps can last from a few seconds to 10 minutes. They usually affect the calf muscle but can affect the feet or the thighs (less often).
Leg cramps are sometimes caused by:
Ageing:
• Putting too much strain on muscles during exercise, which can be worse in hot or humid weather
• Pregnancy (Usually in the later stages)
• Certain medicines e.g. statins, diuretics.
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Liver disease
Doing regular calf stretch exercises may help to reduce cramps but not stop them completely:
1. Stand facing a wall and stretch out your arms until your hands just touch the wall.
2. Make sure you are standing straight and your feet are flat on the floor
3. Lean forward pressing your hands against the wall until you feel your calf muscles stretch. Hold for 2-3 seconds.
Stand up straight again
Repeat a few times for 5 minutes, 3 times a day (the last before bed)
During a cramp, stretching and massaging the muscle may ease the pain although most cramps go away without you doing anything.
