Causes and prevention of foot cramps

Foot cramps are not uncommon and can cause sharp pain to many people. Not only are they uncomfortable, foot cramps can also recur frequently if the cause is not found and adjusted promptly.

Muscle cramps are more common as we age, says Caitlin Lewis, MD, a sports medicine physician in the US. While uncomfortable, muscle cramps are rarely dangerous, according to the Cleveland Clinic .

Foot cramps occur when the muscles in your feet contract uncontrollably, often due to circulatory problems, electrolyte imbalances, or muscle weakness. Here are some common causes to look out for.

Overexercising

Overtraining or overtraining without adequate warming up and stretching will cause muscle fatigue, leading to cramps and injury. When exercising, you should rest properly and not try to endure the pain.

Overtraining without adequate warming up and stretching will cause muscle fatigue, leading to cramps and injury.

Photo: AI

Wearing ill-fitting shoes can cause cramps.

Wearing shoes that are too tight or too small can cause your feet to become stiff, numb, and your toes to become curled. This can affect blood circulation and cause cramps.

Poor blood circulation

When blood flow to the legs is restricted, they become prone to numbness, tingling, and cramping.

However, some circulatory problems cause pain that feels like cramps, so if you notice increased pain when walking or persistent cramps, don't ignore them and see your doctor.

Dehydration

Dehydration causes the body to lose blood circulation and electrolyte balance, which can lead to cramps, constipation, and other problems.

Electrolyte deficiency

Substances such as calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium are essential for muscle contraction and relaxation. When these substances are deficient, the body is prone to cramps in the legs or other areas.

Side effects of the drug

Certain medications, such as statins and diuretics, can cause cramps. If you have just started a new medication and experience cramps, talk to your doctor.

Flat feet

People with flat feet (no arch) are prone to chronic cramps. If you are in this group, you should stretch regularly and use supportive insoles to increase circulation and reduce pressure.

When you have a leg cramp, you want to relieve the pain quickly and prevent it from recurring. You can apply warm compresses, massage gently, drink enough water and walk gently.

In addition, you should choose shoes that fit well, support your arches, increase daily stretching, and eat a nutritious diet to provide calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium.

If cramps occur frequently or are persistent, see your doctor for timely examination and treatment.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nguyen-nhan-va-cach-phong-ngua-chuot-rut-ban-chan-185250707232925952.htm