Causes of Foot Cramps
Foot cramps are contractions of the muscle structure that suddenly appear as a pain. When the cramp enters, we cannot move or even touch our feet. Nearly 600 muscles in our body act in conjunction with each other during the day. Sometimes involuntarily, the muscle stretches and becomes stiff. The contractions that occur most frequently in the calves of the feet can be the response of a tired body.
Exercising a lot during the day and tiring the muscles are the main causes of cramps. They usually occur at night and can even induce sleep.
Not drinking enough water during the day and using the muscles too much cause involuntary stretching. Therefore, drinking 1.5-2 liters of water during the day will support the normal functioning of the muscles. Harmful substances such as alcohol and cigarettes that tire the body reduce the body’s resistance and affect the muscles. At the same time, foot contractions are seen in those who drink too much tea and coffee.
Since the deterioration of the diet and eating too much junk food affects the health of the body negatively, it can also disrupt the working system of the muscles.
Foot Cramp is More Common in Winter
In winter, the air gets colder and the blood circulation in the body slows down compared to summer. The slowing down system can cause sudden contractions in the body. As the sugar and oxygen ratio in the muscles decreases, the muscles begin to harden. When we are cold in cold weather, the body shows a shivering reaction and protects the body, and it does this by contracting the muscles.
Pregnant women and the elderly experience more contractions because they move less than other people. Especially pregnant women put a load on the muscles in their feet as they gain weight every day. In overweight people, the cause of cramps is excessive pressure on the muscles. In the body with vitamin and mineral deficiencies, the stimulus response of the muscles is in the form of contractions. It is necessary to consult a doctor and have the necessary tests done.
Vitamin Deficiency May Cause Cramps
Since minerals such as calcium and magnesium stimulate the nerve ending, they should be measured at regular intervals. Vitamin D deficiency in the body can also cause cramps as it affects the bone structure. Since vitamin B supports brain functioning, cramps can be seen frequently in its deficiency. Diabetics also complain of cramps.
How Can I Relieve Foot Cramp?
When calf or foot cramp occurs, you should first take a deep breath and ensure that your body receives plenty of oxygen. When the cramp enters, you should not hit the area hard, you should not pinch. Moving your foot slowly and slowly pulling the leg towards the body is what needs to be done.
You should start massaging the cramped area with both hands, but do not press too hard. You can use a warm water bag to relieve the contraction in the area. If it is a cramp whose cause you do not know, you should drink a glass or two of water as a precaution, if it is due to fluid loss, it will pass in a short time. When the cramp enters, you get rid of the pain thanks to a few minutes of intervention. It is not recommended to take muscle relaxants because the cramp is temporary and may disappear before the medicine takes effect.
What Can I Do to Prevent Foot Cramps?
If he has cramps very often and more than 3 times a day, you should definitely look for the cause. You should consult your doctor and learn about your vitamin D, B vitamins and mineral values such as potassium and magnesium. You should treat the missing vitamins and minerals. Avoid making sudden movements, especially in winter.
If you are doing sports or working in a very fast-paced job, you should pay attention to fluid consumption. You can calculate how much water you need according to your weight from many sites and applications. Relaxing the muscles before and after you start sports will prevent cramping. You should keep your feet warm and protected from the cold. Lifting your feet up and resting for a while while going to bed at night will reduce cramps.
