Sudden and involuntary contraction of the muscles, the cramp is painful and unpleasant. But did you know that it can intervene in multiple situations for different reasons? We take stock with Dr Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical.

Cramp, this painful and sudden contraction of a muscle, we all experience it one day or another during exercise or a lack of magnesium. But these are not the only reasons that cause it. While some causes are benign, others are more problematic and should prompt you to consult your doctor. Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical, takes us through what can cause them.

Calf cramps and other locations (feet, hands, etc.)

The cramp affects a muscle, or even a group of muscles. The lower limbs are the most affected areas: calves, thighs, toes. However, the hands can also be affected, more commonly in writers or musicians.

Cramps can occur both at night (nocturnal cramps) and during the day (daytime cramps). Night cramps are involuntary muscle contractions.

When you have cramps, what is it a sign of (deficiency, muscular effort, etc.)?

Certain situations cause muscle cramps that are to be expected. These manifestations are therefore painful but isolated and can invite us to review our habits:

Dehydration. “When you don’t drink enough during the day, it can cause muscle contractions”;
Excessive muscular effort : “In this case it is a cramp localized to a group of muscles used too intensively”;
A deficiency is what we call a electrolyte imbalance. “To function, muscles need electrolytes, sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc. An imbalance can cause cramps. So when you have regular cramps, you need to do a blood ionogram”;
A bad position : if your posture is not good, a muscle may be used inappropriately… and contract;
Age or pregnancy can also be sources of muscle cramps;
Certain medications as diuretics can also cause cramps, adds our expert.

What illnesses can cause cramps during the day or night (blood circulation, thyroid, etc.)?

Certain illnesses can also cause daytime or nighttime muscle cramps:

Poor blood circulation can also cause muscle cramps. “If it does not properly irrigate the muscle, a cramp may occur”;
Chronic kidney disease: when the kidneys are damaged and no longer properly filter the body’s blood, cramps can also be part of the symptoms, alongside digestive problems, itching and loss of appetite;
Diabetes and diabetic neuropathy ;
Hypothyroidism : this disruption of the thyroid gland causes a reduction in the production of thyroid hormones and a slowdown in metabolism. Muscle cramps this time accompany weight gain, great fatigue and intolerance to the cold.

What neurological disorders can cause muscle cramps?

Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder that affects the peripheral nerves that connect the central nervous system to the rest of the body. Cramps can be among the symptoms of this neurological condition, along with tingling and electric shock sensations.

Finally, Charcot’s disease a serious neurodegenerative disease also called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), can cause cramps accompanied by muscle weakness and joint stiffness.

How long does a calf cramp last?

“In summary, we can say that a cramp when it is mild and temporary, when it lasts only a few minutes, should not worry you. On the other hand, if the cramps come back and last over time, it is necessary to see your doctor. He will do a neurological examination, check your reflexes and possibly take a blood test to find the origin of these conditions” concludes our expert.

What to do against daytime or nighttime cramps (calves, thigh, leg, etc.)?

Grandma’s remedies for cramp pain (calves, toes, etc.) day or night

If a diagnosed underlying disease is involved, it will obviously need to be treated. Otherwise, measures can help relieve muscle cramps effectively.

One of the most effective solutions for relieving this condition and associated pain is stretching. A calf muscle cramp can be soothed through muscle stretching by using one hand to pull the foot and toes upward. A muscle cramp in the toe will also be relieved using this technique. Stretching is effective for everyone, including pregnant women.

To combat muscle cramps, you will need to ensure excellent hydration.

Massage helps relieve muscle pain.

If you are prone to cramps regularly, you can do some stretching exercises before bed. Also remember to warm up your muscles before physical exertion and to stretch well after playing sports.

Anti-cramp medications: which medications for muscle contractures and pain?

On medical advice, treatment is sometimes based on taking painkillers or anti-inflammatories to reduce muscle pain. The doctor may possibly prescribe medication to relieve the cramps, but inconsistently, particularly with mexiletine. However, this medication has many side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, tremors and even seizures. Quinine is no longer recommended for the treatment of muscle cramps.