Causes Of Foot Cramps

Foot cramps can be described as erratic, non-voluntary spasms in the inner arch or toes of the feet, which might extend from a few minutes to few days. Commonly seen amongst sports persons and aging individuals, they result in aggravated pain, from the contraction of the muscle without effective shortening. The spasm that characterizes foot cramps might leave the muscle sore even after the pain is gone. Though not an uncommon phenomenon, regular occurrence of foot crams presents a reason to worry and necessitates a visit to the doctor. Read on to explore the causes of foot cramps.

What Causes Foot Cramps

Diseases like Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, illnesses of the nervous system, diabetes, tetanus and thyroid
Electrolyte imbalance in the body
Fatigue from walking or standing for extended periods of time
Flat feet or hyper flexible joints
Foot problems, like tendonitis and plantar fasciitis
Hormonal imbalance in the body
Inadequate hydration (not drinking enough water)
Increased breathing during cardio exercises
Injury caused by repetitive motion
Lack of muscle strengthening exercise
Low potassium levels in the body
Wearing old, worn-out footwear
Poor blood circulation in the body
Sedentary lifestyle, leading to obesity and muscle weakness
Sudden increase in the intensity of workouts
Deficiency of vitamin D in the body

Treating Foot Cramps

Try having a glass of lukewarm milk just before going to bed. Though easy, the remedy is very effective in treating foot cramps.
Having chamomile tea, 5 times a day, can help bring relief from foot cramps, in about 2 weeks.
Take a hot shower before going to bed, making sure to soak the feet in the water for sometime. It will surely prove effective.
When you lie down at night, stretch the legs as far as you can and hold the position for a few minutes. Repeat as many times as you can.
There is yet another exercise that proves beneficial in case of foot cramps. Stand straight, keep your heel on the floor and curl your toes upwards. Hold the position for a few minutes and repeat.
Red raspberry leaf tea has also proven to be good for treating foot cramps. Have a cup in the morning as well as evening.
Drink a concoction containing 1 tbsp calcium lactate, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar and 1 tsp honey, in ½ glass lukewarm water, once in a day.
When you go to bed at night or rest in the daytime, carry a hot water bottle with you and use it to apply heat on the feet.
Consuming 2-3 bananas in a day as well as having 2 tsp of honey daily is another effective home remedy for foot cramps.
Use lavender oil, rosemary oil and eucalyptus oil to massage the affected area, once in a day.
You can also try pressing your toes against the wall and stretching the calf muscles, 15-20 times daily.

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