Night cramps are an uncomfortable occurrence familiar to everyone. While not posing a health threat, they can be painful and distressing, prompting a desire to alleviate them promptly.
Cramps during the night refer to involuntary muscle contractions in the upper leg, calf, and feet. They should not be confused with restless leg syndrome. Restless leg syndrome is not painful and doesn’t prevent the leg and hip from moving. Nighttime cramps completely paralyze the legs when they strike and usually last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes.
The causes of this condition are unclear, but it is likely that deficiencies in nutrients and a sedentary lifestyle are among the factors contributing to it. Even though the reasons are vague, some ways can help you relieve the night cramps and overcome them whenever they occur.
If you suffer from them, try some of these ways and see which one works for you:
Physical activity
Prolonged periods of sitting or standing may result in cramps. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid excessive sitting or standing and incorporate more walking and movement throughout the day. Engaging in light physical activity can be beneficial in alleviating this condition.
Stretching
When you wake up in the middle of the night because of night-time cramps, pull the affected muscle in order to relax it faster as it is a way to stop the cramps.
Drinking a lot of water
Water is very beneficial for our whole body. Staying hydrated will prevent muscle cramps. So, never forget to drink plenty of water, even when you are not thirsty.
Massage and acupuncture
Deep tissue massage and acupuncture have a tremendous effect on your body, reducing the possibility of night time cramps appearing.
Epsom salt baths
Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, which has muscle-relaxing properties and can help prevent cramps. Use it to prepare a hot bath and soak in it for a little while. When you need instant relief, massage the muscle that is affected by cramps with this salt. It will help your muscles to relax and to boost circulation.
Increasing your magnesium level
Magnesium plays a vital role in relaxing muscles and connective tissues. If you frequently experience nighttime cramps, consider boosting your magnesium intake by consuming more foods rich in this essential mineral. Plums, dry fruits, nuts, avocados, seeds, are some of the main sources of magnesium.
You can also make a homemade magnesium oil to use to massage your muscles with it. Boil half a cup of water and combine it with a half cup of magnesium oil. Simmer it until the liquid is reduced. Let it stay aside to cool a little. Put the oil in a spray bottle to apply it more easily on your body.
