CEBU, Philippines – Overuse of a muscle, dehydration, muscle strain or simply holding a body position for a prolonged period of time may result in a muscle cramp. In many cases, however, the exact cause of a muscle cramp isn't known.
Although most muscle cramps are harmless, some may be related to an underlying medical condition, such as:
• Inadequate blood supply. Narrowing of the arteries that deliver blood to your legs (arteriosclerosis of the extremities) can produce cramp-like pain in your legs and feet while you're exercising. These cramps usually go away soon after you stop exercising.
• Nerve compression. Compression of the nerves in your spine (lumbar stenosis) can also produce cramp-like pain in your legs. The pain usually worsens the longer you walk. Walking in a slightly flexed position - such as you would employ when pushing a shopping cart ahead of you - may improve or delay the onset of symptoms.
• Mineral depletion. Too little potassium, calcium or magnesium in your diet can contribute to leg cramps. Diuretics - medications often prescribed for high blood pressure - may also deplete these minerals.
There are other factors that may increase your risk of muscle cramps, including:
• Age. Older people lose muscle mass, so the remaining muscle may get overstressed more easily. This may increase the risk for muscle cramps.
• Dehydration. Athletes who become fatigued and dehydrated while participating in warm-weather sports frequently develop muscle cramps.
• Pregnancy. Muscle cramps are also more common during pregnancy.
• Medical conditions. You may be at higher risk of muscle cramps if you have diabetes, or nerve, liver or thyroid disorders.
(mayoclinic.org)