What to do when experiencing leg cramps during sleep

Jun 04, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

What to do when experiencing leg cramps during sleep

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Huang Shichang
If you experience leg cramps during sleep, you can take the following measures to quickly relieve them: 1. Stretch the muscles: Immediately stretch and massage the cramped leg muscles, especially in the calf area. Gently pull your foot toward your body to alleviate the spasm. 2. Apply heat or cold: Choose either a warm or cold compress based on personal comfort. Heat helps improve blood circulation, while cold can reduce pain and muscle tension. 3. Adjust sleeping position: Avoid maintaining the same sleeping posture for prolonged periods, especially positions that put pressure on the legs. Try lying on your side or back, and place a pillow under your legs to elevate them. 4. Stay warm: Ensure your sleeping environment is warm and protect your legs from getting cold, as low temperatures can also trigger cramps.