What causes calf muscle cramps?

Possible causes of calf muscle cramps may include the following: 1. Exercise-related factors: After prolonged intense exercise or excessive fatigue, leg muscles may become fatigued and prone to abnormal contractions, leading to calf cramps. 2. Cold stimulation: In cold environments, failure to keep the legs adequately warm may expose calf muscles to cold stimuli, easily triggering spasms and cramps. 3. Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium can increase neuromuscular excitability, potentially causing calf cramps. Calcium, in particular, plays a crucial role in muscle contraction and relaxation. 4. Medical conditions: Certain diseases—such as lumbar disc herniation, lower extremity varicose veins, and spinal degenerative changes—may compress nerves or impair blood circulation, resulting in calf muscle cramps.