Foot Cramps Remedy

Legs and the feet are some of the most common areas of the body, which are affected by cramps. Cramps can be termed as sudden forceful contractions of the muscles, that can cause considerable pain. Foot cramps can also be quite painful. It is essential to have some knowledge about foot cramp causes and remedies, in order to treat this condition effectively. Foot and leg cramps can be caused by a wide range of factors, right from fatigue and excessive strain to nutritional deficiency.

Foot Cramp Causes

Most often, foot and leg cramps result from excessive stress or fatigue and poor circulation of blood. Cramping caused by fatigue or tiredness can be due to walking or standing for a prolonged time period, especially on a hard surface. On the other hand, poor or decreased circulation adversely affects the supply of oxygen to the extremities of the body like, the foot. Lack of enough oxygen can cause muscle cramps in foot. Many times, foot cramp can be associated with dehydration, and loss of minerals or electrolyte disturbances due to dehydration caused by excessive sweating.

Even lack of essential vitamins and minerals, especially the deficiency of potassium, calcium and vitamin D can cause frequent leg and foot cramps. Apart from these, some other important causes are, pinched nerves, excessive use of alcohol and tobacco, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinitis, hormonal imbalance and environmental toxicity. Sometimes, it can be caused by muscle weakness due to some other health conditions like, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.

Foot Cramp Treatment

Foot cramps and the pain caused by it can be easily alleviated with the help of some simple remedies. On experiencing cramps in the feet, one should immediately stop the activity that caused the cramp.

• When you suddenly get a cramp, try to lie or sit down in a comfortable position. Then slowly pull the contracted muscle in the opposite direction of the cramp.
• Gently massage the affected area or the muscle of the foot for a few minutes. This would help to relax the muscle and reduce the pain associated with the cramp.
• Now, try to flex the toes of the foot. First, curl the toes towards the ground and then in the opposite direction, i.e towards you. This is a very effective for relaxing the affected foot muscle.
• Apply heat to the foot. This would not only help to relax the muscle, but to relieve the pain as well.
• Take a hot shower or warm bath to relax the muscles of the affected foot. Another way to do this is to take a warm foot soak.
• Apply ice pack on the affected foot. This is an excellent home remedy to cure cramps caused by injury or strain.
• If required, wrap the affected foot in an elastic bandage.
• If the pain caused by the cramp is severe and unbearable, then pain killers can be taken, but only if your physician permits.

The above mentioned remedies will no doubt help to relieve the cramp and the associated pain and discomfort. However, to prevent foot problems in the future, a few dietary and lifestyle changes are required. Exercising regularly, especially the stretching and muscle strengthening workouts will help you get rid of this condition. You can also talk to your physician about the suitable exercises. Along with exercising follow a diet that includes lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. A healthy and balanced diet can provide the essential vitamins, and also the minerals that are required for maintaining electrolyte balance in the body.

People frequently getting foot and leg cramps should increase the consumption of foods like, banana, cauliflower and potato, which are rich in potassium. They should always warm up before exercising, drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated, and avoid high heel shoes, excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine and the habit of sleeping with the legs bent. Alcohol abuse is another causes of this condition. But, if foot cramps are persistent and quite frequent, then it is better to consult a physician for appropriate treatment.