Foot cramps mainly occur when a muscle in feet suddenly squeezes and cannot relax. This causes a lot of pain in feet. These cramps often occur in the arches of feet, on top part of feet and around the toes.
Causes:
- Heavy exercises- Heavy exercise can put unnecessary stress to muscles in the feet, which leads to cramp in the feet muscle.
- Dehydration- Drinking less water leads to dehydration. Dehydration can cause feet muscles and other muscles to cramp. Due to dehydration, body organ and tissues do not function properly. It leads to cramp in muscles.
- Low potassium levels- Potassium is an electrolyte. It controls nerve function and muscle cells. If potassium levels are low, it leads to muscle cramping, particularly in feet and legs.
- Nerve damage- If nerves of feet are damaged, it can cause pain, which could be mistaken as muscle cramp. It may occur on hands and feet. Nerve damage leads to pain and numbness in muscles
Treatment
- Stretch- stretch your muscles before and after exercise. Warm up the muscles, when using them for a long time. If you suffer from leg cramps at night, stretch your legs before sleep.
- Hydrate- Drink plenty of water when you are more active or weather is hot or dry. It helps muscles stay hydrated and relaxed.
- Healthy diet- Eat healthy diet. Take plenty of fruits and vegetables along with calcium, magnesium and potassium.
Developed by Scientific Angle brought to you by Health Meter Services
Disclaimer: Don’t follow any suggestions in this article without consulting a qualified doctor.
Sources:
1. What Can I Do About My Foot Cramps? https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/what-can-i-do-about-foot-cramps#1
2. Causes and Treatment of Cramps in Your Feet https://www.healthline.com/health/foot-cramps