How to treat leg cramps

Jul 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

In general, leg cramps may be caused by strenuous exercise, cold exposure, hypocalcemia, lower extremity varicose veins, lumbar disc herniation, or other similar reasons. Patients can visit a reputable hospital to choose from general treatment, medication, and other methods to alleviate symptoms. In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and supplement calcium and vitamins, as well as perform appropriate leg muscle exercises.

Generally, leg cramps may be caused by strenuous exercise, cold exposure, hypocalcemia, lower extremity varicose veins, lumbar disc herniation, and other reasons. Patients can visit a regular hospital to choose general treatment, medication, and other methods for improvement. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Strenuous Exercise

During strenuous exercise, frequent contractions of the calf muscles lead to accumulation of local metabolic products and increased muscle excitability, making cramps more likely. Warm up adequately before exercising, stretch afterward, and hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds. Replenish fluids during exercise promptly and avoid excessive fatigue.

2. Cold Exposure

Exposure of calf muscles to cold stimulation can cause strong muscle contractions, leading to cramps. Keep legs warm and wear loose, warm clothing. Soak feet in warm water at about 40°C for 15 minutes before bedtime to promote leg blood circulation.

3. Hypocalcemia

Low concentration of calcium ions in the blood increases muscle excitability, causing calf cramps, often accompanied by numbness in hands and feet. Patients should take calcium supplements under a doctor's guidance, such as calcium carbonate D3 tablets, calcium gluconate tablets, or calcium citrate tablets. Also, consume more calcium-rich foods such as milk and soy products.

4. Lower Extremity Varicose Veins

Abnormal function of the venous valves in the lower limbs impedes blood flow, causing insufficient blood supply to the calf muscles and resulting in cramps, often accompanied by leg soreness and visible veins. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as Venoruton tablets, Diosmin tablets, or Hesperidin tablets. Avoid prolonged standing in daily life and elevate the lower limbs appropriately during rest.

5. Lumbar Disc Herniation

When a herniated lumbar disc compresses nerve roots, it can cause spasms in the calf muscles controlled by the affected nerves, leading to cramps, possibly accompanied by low back pain and radiating leg pain. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as celecoxib capsules, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or mecobalamin tablets may be used for relief. Also, avoid prolonged sitting or standing and rest on a firm mattress.

In daily life, maintain a balanced diet and ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. Engage in appropriate leg muscle exercises such as walking or swimming. Seek timely medical attention if frequent cramps occur.

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In general, persistent pain after a leg cramp may be caused by factors such as muscle strain, exposure to cold, electrolyte imbalance, peripheral artery disease, or rheumatoid arthritis. Patients can visit a正规 hospital to choose from general treatment, physical therapy, medication, and other methods to aid recovery. In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, supplement protein and vitamins, and perform adequate warm-up exercises before physical activity.

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How to quickly relieve leg cramp pain

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