Do you ever wake up with a sudden, stabbing pain in your calf? Or do you suffer from calf cramps whilst walking, exercising or even at rest? If so, you’ll probably want to know what causes these symptoms and how you can prevent them. Calf cramps can have various causes. In this blog, you’ll find out what causes these symptoms, what you can do yourself and when it’s advisable to consult a physiotherapist.
What causes calf cramps?
A calf cramp is a sudden, involuntary contraction of the calf muscle. This can last for a few seconds, but sometimes for several minutes. The muscle feels hard to the touch and moving it is often very painful.
From the NHG Guidelines on Sleep Problems It appears that night-time calf cramps occur regularly, particularly among older people, pregnant women and those who put their muscles under intense strain. The guideline explains that factors such as dehydration, intense exercise and certain medicines can increase the risk of calf cramps. The NHG also advises first considering non-medicinal measures, such as drinking plenty of fluids, doing stretching exercises and avoiding triggering factors.
Common causes of calf cramps include:
- intense exercise or strenuous physical activity
- not drinking enough, which leads to dehydration
- prolonged sitting or standing
- pregnancy
- certain medicines
- reduced blood flow
- overuse or shortening of the calf muscles
Often, there is no single clear cause; instead, several factors come into play at the same time.
Calf cramps, especially at night
Many people experience calf cramps, particularly at night. You’re lying relaxed in bed when you’re suddenly woken by a sharp, stabbing pain. Your calf tenses up and you can barely move your leg.
Night-time cramps are often caused by the muscles shortening whilst you sleep. Fatigue, age and reduced muscle tone can also play a part. Although this type of cramp is usually harmless, it can disrupt a good night’s sleep and lead to daytime tiredness.
Do you regularly suffer from night-time cramps? If so, it’s a good idea to find out what’s causing them.
What can you do yourself to relieve calf cramps?
When a cramp occurs, it often helps to gently stretch the muscle. Gently pull your toes towards you and try to stand on the affected leg as soon as you can.
In addition, you can try to prevent new symptoms by:
- to drink enough water
- stretch your calf muscles regularly
- to warm up your muscles gradually before exercising
- not to sit or stand still for too long at a time
- to exercise your muscles regularly to increase your strength
Are the symptoms recurring? If so, it would be wise to have this investigated further.
When is it advisable to seek help for calf cramps?
Occasional calf cramps are usually nothing to worry about. However, if the symptoms recur regularly, become increasingly severe or occur for no apparent reason, it is advisable to contact a physiotherapist or GP.
This also applies if, in addition to the cramp, you experience swelling, redness, numbness or persistent pain. In that case, there may be another underlying condition that requires further investigation.
How can a physiotherapist help with calf cramps?
Do you regularly suffer from calf cramps, or do these symptoms restrict your movement? If so, a physiotherapist may be able to help.
During an initial assessment, the physiotherapist will examine, amongst other things, how your muscles are functioning, whether there is any muscle shortening or weakness, what your posture and gait are like, and which daily activities or sporting exertion are affecting your symptoms. A personalised treatment plan is drawn up based on this. The aim is not only to relieve the cramp, but also to prevent it from recurring as much as possible.
Do you regularly suffer from calf cramps? If so, please feel free to contact Get in touch with our practice. You can also email us at info@friskfysio.nl or call us on 085-5000333. We will investigate the cause of your symptoms and work with you to draw up a treatment plan that suits your situation.
