Night cramps are an unpleasant experience that each one of us has experienced. Although it is not dangerous for our health, it can be painful and uncomfortable, wanting to stop it immediately. Nighttime cramps are involuntary contractions of the upper leg, calf, and feet. They are different than 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 reasons for this are unknown, but most probably nutrients deficiencies and a sedentary way of life are some of the reasons that bring about this condition. 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
Sitting or standing for a long time can lead to cramps. So, don’t sit or stand for too long time. Instead, walk more and move throughout the day. Even some light physical activity will help you improve 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 contains high amounts of magnesium that relaxes your muscles and prevents 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 muscle to relax and to boost circulation.
Increasing your magnesium level
Magnesium is a crucial mineral in muscle and connective tissue relaxation. Therefore, if you often have night-time cramps, increase the magnesium intake by eating more food rich in this 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.