Vitamins for leg cramps: Efficacy, options, and alternatives

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A potential cause of leg cramps is a vitamin deficiency, though research into this is ongoing. Vitamins B1, B12, and D may help relieve them, along with potassium and magnesium.

This article discusses whether vitamin deficiencies can cause leg cramps, home and medical treatment, and when a person should see a doctor.

According to BMJ Clinical Evidence, researchers do not know why people have leg cramps. The article indicates that common causes of leg cramps include exercise, pregnancy, and electrolyte and salt imbalances.

However, there is evidence that certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause leg cramps.

Some of these vitamins and minerals, alongside their recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for adults, include:

Please note that potassium has an adequate intake (AI) rather than an RDA. This is because there is not yet enough evidence to establish an RDA.

A person’s RDA or AI can change according to a range of factors, such as their age and sex and whether they are pregnant or breastfeeding. The above amounts are suitable for most adults.

There is a variety of vitamin supplements on the market. However, some of these products contain doses higher than the RDA. Always check with a doctor or healthcare professional before taking supplements to establish the correct dosage.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based.

People who have a vitamin B1 deficiency can experience aching and cramping in the lower legs.

Supplements

The following supplements contain vitamin B1 and may help prevent leg cramps due to deficiency.

Nutricost Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

This product contains 120 vitamin B1 capsules.

Each capsule contains 100 mg of vitamin B1.

The capsules are non-GMO, gluten-free, and third-party tested.

Nutricost makes this product in a GMP compliant and FDA registered facility.

Nutricost Vitamin B1 supplements are available to purchase online.

BulkSupplements Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1) Powder

The company recommend taking 125 mg of this powder per serving. Each serving contains 101mg of vitamin B12.

The company claim that this supplement supports metabolic function, the kidneys, and the nervous system. It also helps recovery from exercise.

This product is free from sugar, soy, dairy, yeast, gluten, and additives.

BulkSupplements Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1) Powder is available for purchase online.

BariMelts B1 Dissolvable Bariatrics Vitamins

The company has designed this product specifically for people who have had gastric bypasses, gastric sleeves, or lap band surgery. The tablets are dissolvable for ease of consumption.

Each tablet contains 12. 5 mg of vitamin B1, and people should take 1 tablet a day.

According to BariMelts, this product is gluten-free, non-GMO, sugar-free, and made with natural flavors, sweeteners, and colors.

BariMelts B1 Dissolvable Bariatrics Vitamins are available to buy online.

Foods high in vitamin B1

Some foods high in vitamin B1 include:

• whole grains
• brown rice
• pork and poultry
• soybeans
• nuts
• dried beans
• peas
• fortified grain products such as cereal

Cobalamin, or vitamin B12, is a vitamin that people can find in animal and dairy food.

People who have a vitamin B12 deficiency can sometimes experience muscle cramps all over the body.

Supplements

Since most good food sources of vitamin B12 are not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, people following plant-based diets may benefit from a supplement.

Jarrow Formulas Methylcobalamin (B-12)

This product contains 60 chewable lozenges of vitamin B12. Each serving of 1 lozenge contains 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12.

The company recommend chewing or dissolving 1 lozenge in the mouth every 3–4 days.

This product is suitable for vegetarians and vegans and contains no wheat, gluten, soybeans, dairy products, or eggs.

Jarrow Formulas Methylcobalamin (B-12) is available for purchase online.

Wellabs Vitamin B-12 Extra Strength

This product comes in liquid form. The company makes this product in the United States.

It is vegan-friendly and is free from gluten, corn syrup, soy, and GMO.

Each serving of this product contains 5,000 mcg of vitamin B12.

The company recommend taking 2 drops a day to boost mood and energy.

Wellabs Vitamin B-12 Extra Strength is available for purchase online.

Naturelo Vegan B12

Made in the United States, this product contains 100% natural, non-GMO ingredients. It is gluten-free, soy-free, and suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

It does not contain any coloring, flavoring, or preservatives.

The company recommend that people take 1 capsule daily with food. Each capsule contains 1,000mcg of vitamin B12 and 200 mg of organic spirulina.

Naturelo Vegan B12 is available for purchase online.

Foods high in vitamin B12

Some foods high in vitamin B12 include:

• liver
• beef
• lamb
• chicken
• eggs
• dairy

Learn about vegan and vegetarian food sources of vitamin B12 here.

While the evidence is not conclusive, some scientists and medical experts think that a lack of vitamin D may cause muscle aches and pains.

Current research shows that it is likely that a very severe vitamin D deficiency can reduce muscle mass and increase muscle weakness. However, minor deficiencies do not have a significant effect.

Supplements

The following vitamin D supplements may help prevent deficiency:

Fit Ox Vitamin D3 Gummies

This product contains 120 chewable gummies that are organic and strawberry flavored.

The company recommend taking 2 gummies per day with a meal, which provides 100 mcg (4,000 IU) vitamin D.

This product is vegan-friendly, non-GMO, gluten-free, and contains no preservatives.

Fit Ox Vitamin D3 Gummies are available for purchase online.

Sports Research Vitamin D3+K2 Softgels

This product is 100% vegan and contains coconut oil and non-GMO ingredients.

It contains vitamin D3 and K2.

The company recommend taking 1 softgel as a serving.

The company state that each serving contains 125mcg (5,000 IU) of vitamin D and 100 mcg of vitamin K.

Sports Research Vitamin D3+K2 Softgels are available for purchase online.

Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D3

This product contains 240 softgels. The ingredients are non-GMO, gluten-free, sugar-free, and do not contain artificial colors or sweeteners.

The company recommend taking 1 softgel per day with a meal. Each serving contains 125 mcg (5,000 IU) of vitamin D.

Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D3 is available for purchase online.

Foods high in vitamin D

Some foods that are high in vitamin D include:

• fish, such as halibut, trout, and cod
• morel mushrooms
• pork
• beef and beef liver
• chicken
• eggs
• dairy products
• orange juice

Learn more about vitamin D food sources here.

Magnesium is a mineral that helps transport calcium and potassium across the body. Most magnesium in the body is in the bones, and the kidneys regulate how much magnesium is in the body at any one time.

A lack of magnesium may contribute to muscle cramps. Severe magnesium deficiency is rare, but low to moderate magnesium deficiency is not uncommon.

Supplements

The following supplements may help prevent magnesium deficiency:

Nobi Nutrition Magnesium Complex Premium

This vegan product contains 60 U.S.-formulated capsules.

The company recommend taking 1 capsule one to two times daily with a meal.

The product contains 60 capsules.

Each serving contains 500 mg of magnesium.

Nobi Nutrition Magnesium Complex Premium is available for purchase online.

Doctor’s Best High Absorption Magnesium

This product contains magnesium glycinate.

The company recommend taking 2 tablets two times a day.

Each serving contains 100 mg of magnesium.

The ingredients are non-GMO, gluten and soy-free, and vegan friendly.

Doctor’s Best High Absorption Magnesium is available for purchase online.

SlowMag Mg Muscle + Heart

This product contains slow-releasing magnesium chloride and calcium.

The company formulates this product with slow releasing magnesium chloride to help the body better absorb this mineral.

The company recommend taking 2 tablets once or twice a day. Each serving contains 238 mg of calcium, 143 mg of magnesium, and 416 mg of chloride.

SlowMag Mg Muscle + Heart is available for purchase online.

Foods high in magnesium

Some foods that are high in magnesium include:

• green vegetables such as spinach
• nuts, seeds, and unprocessed cereals
• legumes
• fruit
• fish
• meat products

Learn more about foods rich in magnesium here.

Potassium helps maintain normal cell function in the body, particularly in the nerves and muscles.

It is relatively common for people to have a potassium deficiency. However, if a person has a severe deficiency, they may experience symptoms such as leg cramps.

Supplements

Life Enhancement Potassium Basics

This product contains 240 potassium capsules. This product contains gelatin, making it unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans or people following certain religious or cultural diets.

The company recommend that people take 2 capsules daily, always with food. Each serving contains 1,020 mg potassium as potassium bicarbonate.

Life Enhancement Potassium Basics is available for purchase online.

Nutricost Potassium Citrate

This product contains 500 capsules of potassium citrate.

The company makes this product in a GMP compliant, FDA registered facility.

This product contains gelatin and rice flour.

The company recommend taking 1 capsule per day. Each capsule contains 99mg of potassium.

Nutricost Potassium Citrate is available to buy online.

Nature Made Potassium Gluconate

This product contains 100 potassium gluconate tablets.

The company recommend that people take 1 tablet per day with a meal and some water. Each serving contains 90 mg of potassium gluconate.

The ingredients are gluten-, preservative-, artificial flavor-, and color-free.

Nature Made Potassium Gluconate is available to buy online.

Foods high in potassium

Some foods high in potassium include:

• bananas
• broccoli, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts
• legumes
• nuts and seeds
• fish
• beef
• chicken and turkey

Learn more about foods high in potassium.

Vitamin supplements may help prevent deficiencies that cause muscle cramps. However, other treatments may be more effective or offer more immediate relief for leg cramps:

Home remedies

There are some home remedies that people can try to reduce muscle cramps. These include:

• gently stretching the muscle that is cramping
• deep tissue massage
• warming up and cooling down before physical activity
• making sure to drink enough water to remain hydrated

Medical treatment

There is little evidence that suggests medication for leg cramps is effective. However, doctors may prescribe the following medications:

• carisoprodol
• diltiazem
• gabapentin
• orphenadrine
• verapamil
• vitamin B12 complex

On March 21, 2022, Sandoz issued a voluntary recall of 13 lots of the drug orphenadrine citrate 100mg ER tablets due to the presence of nitrosamine. Nitrosamine, a known carcinogen with the potential to cause cancer, was found to exist in the drug at levels greater than the acceptable daily intake (ADI) as determined by the FDA. This recall is specific only to a handful of lot numbers and does not affect all orphenadrine tablets made by Sandoz. If you take orphenadrine citrate 100mg ER tablets, talk with your pharmacist or doctor and they will help you determine if your medication has been impacted by the recall.

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Some people may have had quinine in the past. However, according to a 2015 article, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have recommended that doctors avoid prescribing this medication for leg cramps.

Learn more treatments for leg cramps here.

People should see a doctor if they continuously experience leg cramps after exercise or the legs cramps are adversely impacting their ability to partake in daily activities.

There is some evidence that certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies may contribute towards people experiencing leg cramps.

Some supplements and foods may reduce vitamin or mineral deficiency, and people can use home remedies to reduce symptoms of leg cramps.

3 best supplements for muscle cramps

Approximately 60 percent of adults experience these oftentimes painful involuntary contractions, according to the Medical University of South Carolina. Additionally, the rate of cramping tends to increase with age.

Medline adds that the muscles that cramp the most are typically located in the thighs and feet, hands and arms, abdomen, and along the ribcage. The majority of the time these cramps are brought on by overuse.

However, nerve compression, dehydration, low electrolyte levels, reduced blood supply to the muscle, pregnancy, certain medications, and dialysis can all cause muscles to tense as well.

Though muscle cramps are typically harmless and usually go away on their own, Medline indicates that stretching, massage, heat, and increasing fluids can sometimes help. So too can supplements. Here are three to consider based on scientific research.

1.Vitamin B complex

The human body needs a variety of B vitamins for maximum cellular health, proper brain and nerve function, enhanced cardiovascular wellbeing, and normal hormone production according to Healthline. B vitamins also aid in increasing energy levels, improving eyesight, and healthier digestion.

Taking a
vitamin B complex — a supplement containing B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3
(niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid),
and B12 (cobalamin) — can help with all of these functions. But research has
also found that it can potentially help with muscle cramps.

In a 2010 assessment published in the journal Neurology, researchers reviewed 24 trials involving muscle cramp treatments. They noted that, in at least one Class II study — which the Evidence-Based Spine-Care Journal explains means that the study has a moderately low risk of bias — vitamin B complex was found to help treat these cramps.

2. Magnesium

Research published in BMC Family Practice reports that approximately one in three adults
over the age of 50 have nocturnal leg cramps lasting anywhere from a few
seconds to 10 minutes in length. These nighttime leg cramps often cause intense
pain, typically in the calf or foot, resulting in sleep issues and distress as
well.

Some studies have found that magnesium can potentially ease these types of cramps. One such study was published in Medical Science Monitor. At some points during the study, participants were given 300 mg of magnesium for their nocturnal cramps; other times they received a control, keeping a diary to note their cramp durations and severities along the way.

After six
weeks it was determined that, after receiving actual magnesium, 78 percent of
the study subjects reported an improvement in cramping. This compares to just 54
percent reporting some level of improvement after taking a placebo.

Research has also connected oral magnesium
with the relief of leg cramps occurring during pregnancy. Healthline adds that magnesium has other
benefits for expecting mothers as well, such as potentially reducing fetal
growth restriction and preterm birth.

3. Zinc

Medical News Today explains that zinc benefits the body
in several ways. This includes supporting healthy immune system function,
improving learning and memory, maximizing wound healing processes, decreasing
age-related health conditions, and improving fertility. Research has also found
that this nutrient can possibly help ease specific types of muscle cramps.

For
instance, a 2000 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition
involved 12 cirrhotic patients who experienced muscle cramps at least three
times per week, typically in their calves, feet, and hands. After receiving 220
mg BID of zinc sulfate for 12 weeks, 10 of the 12 patients reported improvement
with regard to their muscle cramps. Seven of these indicated that their cramps
went away completely.

Zinc has
also been found beneficial if the cramping is menstruation-related. An article in Medical Hypotheses
states that up to three 30 mg doses of zinc taken daily for one to four days
before menses can help prevent menstrual cramping. However, it is unclear if
this response is due to this nutrient’s impact on prostaglandins or if it is
because it acts an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory for the uterus.

Safe supplement use

Before
taking any of these supplements in an attempt to ease muscle cramps, the National Center for Complementary and
Integrative Health (NCCIH)
warns that some dietary supplements can interact with prescription medication.
They can also increase risk of complications regarding certain medical
procedures.

Plus, some
supplements contain ingredients that aren’t listed on the label according to
the NCCIH, while others make illegal claims, violating governmental standards
and putting consumers at risk of developing medical issues due to supplement
use.

For reasons
such as these, the NCCIH recommends that individuals speak with their healthcare
providers prior to taking supplements before surgery. It also suggests that if
supplements are taken, that they be taken as instructed on the product label.

Finally,
because many supplements have not been adequately tested for pregnant women,
nursing mothers, and children, care should be taken when using them in these
situations.

Muscle spasms – methods of treatment, diagnosis and causes of spasms

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Muscle spasm – sudden painful muscle contraction. Occurs involuntarily, sometimes during sleep or rest. Occurs in healthy young people. Most often occurs with overwork and high physical exertion, metabolic disorders.

Causes of spasms

Many conditions can cause spasms:

• taking or abruptly stopping certain medications;
• hormonal dysfunction;
• vitamin or mineral deficiency;
• diseases of the nervous system;
• dehydration;
• excessive exercise;
• sedentary lifestyle;
• diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Symptoms of muscle spasm

Muscle spasm can be reasonably suspected if pain is felt:

• severe, pressure-aching character;
• increasing, with pressure on the site of maximum pain;
• not subsiding at rest;
• abruptly arising, and then passing.

Classification of muscle spasms

The following types of muscle spasms are divided:

Name	Cause	Description
Clonic	Excitation of the cerebral cortex	Synchronous non-rhythmic contractions accompanied by soreness. Loss or clouding of consciousness, disorientation. The beginning and end of the spasm is sudden
Myoclonic	Reaction of the nervous system to physical or nervous overwork	Short-term attacks at night or during physical overwork. Accompanied by muscle numbness, ocular tic, tachycardia, profuse sweating
Tonic	Overexcitation of the basal regions of the brain	Intense convulsions that appear gradually. May occur during rest periods on upper or lower extremities, face, airways

All types of muscle spasms are divided into:

• generalized – involving a large part of the body and many internal organs;
• local – emerging place, in separate areas.

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At the consultation, we carry out a thorough diagnosis. As a result of the consultation
We give detailed recommendations for treatment and, if necessary, prescribe additional diagnostics.

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Warning symptoms that require a doctor’s visit

In most cases, spasms go away on their own, in a matter of minutes. They can be painful, but do not pose a threat to human health and life. You should consult a doctor if the ailment recurs repeatedly and is accompanied by:

• severe weakness;
• loss of sensation in the area affected by spasm;
• long-lasting muscle twitching after an attack;
• vomiting, diarrhoea, profuse sweating resulting in significant fluid loss in the body;
• increased soreness of each subsequent attack.

First aid for spasms at home

0004

1. Exclude physical activity, create rest for the painful limb or part of the body.
2. For 10-15 minutes, apply an ice compress to a muscle spasming from exercise, and dry heat to a cramped muscle for an unclear reason.
3. Perform a light self-massage of the painful area, increasing blood flow.
4. Drink plenty of mineral water or water with salt.
5. Gently stretch the muscle, taking into account the area of ​​the body, except in cases with severe pain.

Muscle spasms rarely last more than 15 minutes. However, the residual discomfort can be quite long and unpleasant. Even having eliminated the spasm on your own, do not put off a visit to an experienced specialist for a long time.

Diagnosis of emerging problems

The causes of muscle spasm can be quite obvious problems: high physical activity during sports training, non-physiological static posture, anything else. After removing the pain manifestation, you can prophylactically visit a specialist doctor.

Spasms of the head, neck, abdomen and others that occur suddenly, without obvious external causes of discomfort, require a mandatory visit to a doctor. Such muscle spasms can be symptoms of serious diseases that require immediate treatment. It is recommended to pay a visit to a neurologist or orthopedist. After conducting an examination, questioning and additional studies, the specialist will make a diagnosis and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Stages of diagnosis:

• questioning the patient about symptoms: the time of onset of spasms, their duration, frequency, localization, possible provoking factors, additional symptoms, general information about past, chronic diseases, lifestyle, heredity;
• medical examination aimed at neurological examination of the state of muscles and reflexes, examination of the skin;
• additional examination: various types of clinical blood tests, including the level of sugar and electrolytes, electromyography – assessment of the functional state of skeletal muscles and peripheral nerve fibers, MRI of the brain or spinal cord, other studies according to individual indications.

The collected information will serve as a basis for establishing the cause of the condition, accurate diagnosis of the disease. Depending on the prevailing picture, the attending physician will develop a detailed scheme for the most effective and efficient treatment.

Treatment of pathology

Complex therapy helps to eliminate muscle spasms of tissues, get rid of pain manifestations. Depending on the identified cause of the pathology, the following are prescribed:

• physiotherapeutic procedures;
• performing massage procedures;
• cryotherapy, exposure to cold;
• laser therapy;
• acupuncture;
• medicines.

Medical treatment of muscle spasm

To effectively relax cramped muscles and quickly eliminate pain syndrome, use:

• Muscle relaxants, drugs that reduce muscle tone until the muscles are completely immobilized;
• Antispasmodics, drugs that eliminate spasm of the smooth muscles of the internal organs of the patient;
• NSAIDs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with high-quality analgesic effect.

Most drugs in these groups are available over the counter. Nevertheless, before a medical examination, it is not recommended to take drugs on their own, so as not to blur the clinical picture of the disease, suppressing the development of a serious complication.

Possible complications of the disease

If you do not pay attention to muscle spasms, then over time their duration and severity will increase, and will also provoke the progress of serious diseases of the body, such as:

• osteochondrosis;
• narrowing of the arteries, circulatory disorders;
• postural disorders, problems of the musculoskeletal system;
• migraines.

It is much more difficult to cure neglected muscle spasms than a pathological process that has just started.

Prevention of muscle cramps

Effective preventive measures help reduce the likelihood of recurrence of painful manifestations, as well as avoid dangerous complications:

• taking vitamin and mineral complexes;
• daily consumption of at least two liters of drinking water;
• regular muscle-strengthening exercise;
• giving up bad habits;
• timely treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
• undergoing annual scheduled medical examinations, as well as visiting a doctor in the presence of dangerous symptoms.

Muscle spasms: advanced treatment in Moscow

Effective treatment of muscle spasms is possible only with timely access to highly qualified specialists. These are the doctors who work in our clinic. For many years they have been successfully coping with muscle spasms, restoring health and joy of life to the most difficult and hopeless patients. We accept for treatment even those who have been rejected by other specialists or medical institutions.

Guaranteed positive result – a logical result of an innovative approach that combines classical methods of therapy proven by practice, as well as innovative achievements of modern medicine in the field of treatment of muscle spasms. The professional arsenal of doctors of the clinic is rich and varied. It contains a huge number of rehabilitation and recovery programs, and is also systematically updated with the most effective and progressive methods. Our doctors are constantly adopting the best practices of leading experts in this field, leaving for training, seminars, conferences in leading clinics in Israel, the USA, Germany.

We offer our patients a free consultation with an experienced specialist, an extended diagnosis of the problem, and a plan of therapeutic measures. From the first treatment procedures, patients notice a significant improvement in their condition, partial or complete relief of pain symptoms.

Call and register for a free consultation with a specialist!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the harms of muscle tension and spasms?

A spasmodic muscle compresses blood vessels as well as nerve fibers. The normal functioning of not only the tissues of the muscle itself is disturbed, but also of closely located internal organs. In addition, muscle spasm maintains the tissue in a constantly tense state, increasing the body’s energy consumption for irrational and even harmful work.

What diseases can mimic muscle spasms?

The cause of such destruction may be:

• Dystonia, giving more persistent, repetitive convulsions, which may involve several nearby muscle groups;
• Tetany, neuromuscular excitability syndrome in metabolic disorders;
• Muscle ischemia, giving painful symptoms of the muscles of the extremities during exercise, associated with insufficiently active blood circulation;
• Phantom spasms, the occurrence of a sensation of muscle spasm in the absence of a true contraction.

Who tends to cramp more often?

The problem is familiar to every person, but for some it is a rarity, while for others it is a constant companion. The risk group includes people:

• suffering from vascular diseases and muscle atrophy;
• engaged in heavy physical labor;
• athletes;
• alcohol abusers;
• pregnant women
• babies up to three years old, when the temperature rises above 38 degrees.

Why does muscle contraction in pregnant women?

During pregnancy there is a complete restructuring of the body, including metabolism. Against this background, there is often a deficiency of certain elements or vitamins, in particular magnesium. It is his lack that causes muscle spasm. Against the background of weight gain, the load on the woman’s legs increases, causing the occurrence of painful contractions. The lumbar spine, which is in tension under the pressure of the uterus, leads to painful reduction of the back muscles. In the state of gestation, women are recommended frequent rest and physiotherapy exercises, which strengthen the muscular corset of the body.

Material checked by an expert

Marshenin Konstantin Vladimirovich

Chief physician. Neurologist, chiropractor, vertebrologist, neuropsychiatrist, doctor of the highest qualification category

Work experience – 22 years

Video reviews of patients

Joint block in the neck

Hernia in the lower back and neck

B Dr. Length’s clinic I came from spinal problems. With two intervertebral lower hernias and two intervertebral hernias in the neck. I was assigned a comprehensive 10 step program. For 4 months, my lower vertebrae completely disappeared and crunches in my neck disappeared …

Hernia of the lumbosacral region

“After the first time, my back stopped hurting. I felt relieved. Now 7 sessions have already passed and the back really does not hurt. I began to forget about it. And at first it hurt a lot. ”

Inflammation of the sciatic nerve

“For 4 months I suffered from severe inflammation of the sciatic nerve on the right side. After the first visit, relief came immediately within six hours. After 6 courses, the pain was almost gone.

Pain in the lower back and leg

Yakovleva Natalya Mikhailovna
Head of the department, surgeon of the highest category, oncologist-mammologist
I want to express my deep gratitude for the fact that I was put on my feet in the truest sense of the word. I came to the clinic a month and a half ago with severe pain in the lower back and leg. These complaints were long enough and the treatment that I used in the past was ineffective. Fortunately, I ended up in the clinic of Dr. Length and his team of super professionals!

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

“I applied 2 months ago with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. I have a sedentary job and my neck muscles were very cramped. It was impossible to work. Before that, I went to other doctors, but this did not solve my problem. For 2 months I have a fairly positive dynamics. Every week it gets better and better.”

Bechterew’s disease

“I have had Bechterew’s disease for 10 years. The vertebrae began to move out, I began to slouch. I turned to other chiropractors, very famous, media ones. In the end, I didn’t get any results. After 2 sessions I felt much better. Now I don’t have any pain.”

Pain in the spine

“I came in with problems in my back, cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. I was prescribed procedures, had a massage, and was assigned to do physical education at home. This made it much easier for me. I’m already turning my head. I have no pain.”

Shoulder-to-shoulder periarthrosis

I came to the clinic with severe pain in my shoulder. My hand did not rise, I could not sleep at night, I woke up from pain. After the first treatment session, I felt much better. Somewhere in the middle of the course, my hand began to rise, I began to sleep at night.

Arthrosis of the knee joint, 2nd degree

She came in with a very serious illness. I could not walk, I have arthrosis of the 2nd degree of the knee joint. I went through a course of treatment at the Clinic and now I am going 100%.

Herniated disc

“I came to the clinic after I had back pain and it turned out to be a herniated disc. I went to other places, but they only relieved attacks of pain. Hope for a return to normal life was given only by Sergei Vladimirovich, his golden hands!

Scoliosis

“Since I was a teenager, I have suffered from scoliosis in the thoracic region. I felt a feeling of discomfort, tension, periodic pain in the spine. I turned to various specialists, a massage therapist, an osteopath, but I did not feel a strong effect. After treatment, Length S.V. I almost have a straight spine. Currently, I do not feel any problems and discomfort.”

Intervertebral hernia

“At the 5th-6th session there was an improvement. I felt much better. The pain is gone. Improvement progressed more and more each time. Lesson 10 today. I feel great.”

Pain in the lumbar and cervical region

“I am 21 years old. I went to the clinic with discomfort in the lumbar and cervical region. I also sometimes had sharp pains. After undergoing therapy, I felt a significant improvement in my back. I have no pain. The condition as a whole has improved.”

Back pain

“At the beginning of the path of treatment, my back hurt very much. I could no longer walk. I take 5 steps and stop. My entire journey consisted of such stops. In the very first procedure, I left the office with no pain in my spine.”

Cervical hernia

“I came in with a problem in my neck and my right arm was very sore. The neck did not turn, the hand did not rise. After the 3rd session, I felt better. After the 5th, all this pain began to decrease. It turns out I have 2 hernias in my cervical vertebrae. After the sessions, I did an MRI and one hernia decreased. Now he began to move, his hand earned.

Pain in the neck

“I went to Dr. Long because I had a very bad pain in my neck on the right side. I fell on a snowboard 5 years ago, even went to an osteopath, but somehow it didn’t really help. Now everything is fine, there are some consequences left, the muscles were spasmodic. When I came, I had steel muscles, now my neck is very soft.”

Pain in the thoracic region

“I went to the clinic with back pain, namely in the thoracic region. After 10 sessions of treatment, I could already calmly go about my usual business, stay at work until lunch, without howling in pain. Now I’ve come back for an adjustment after 2 months. I’m fine, my back doesn’t hurt.”

Hernia and protrusion

“I came to the clinic with L4-L5 hernia and L5-S1 protrusion. Today the course of treatment has ended. Lower back hurt, it was difficult to bend down. After completing the course and receiving instructions in the form of physical exercises, it became much easier. After a month of treatment, I do not feel any stiffness of movements. ”

Pain in the lower back and hip joint

“From a young age, I was troubled by back pain. When they became unbearable, I went to Dr. Length’s clinic. Already after the first procedure, the pain in the hip joint was gone. After the third procedure, the shooting pains in the lower back stopped.

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Cramps leg cramps in the calf: causes, treatment and prevention

“Cramping legs” is a household description of painful muscle spasms and cramps in the lower extremities. In some cases, spasms are not accompanied by pain, but only rapid rhythmic muscle contractions are observed. Muscles twitch chaotically, either contracting or relaxing.

Leg cramps develop as a result of various diseases and conditions, from electrolyte disorders to neurological disorders and hormonal imbalances. Therapists, neurologists, endocrinologists, phlebologists, etc. are engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of the causes of leg cramps (spasms themselves are not a disease), etc. It all depends on the nature of the problem.

Causes of cramps

Involuntary muscle contractions (leg cramps) are a symptom of various diseases and pathological conditions. In healthy people, painful spasms occur against the background of excessive physical exertion, uncomfortable body position, unsuccessful movement, but in such cases, convulsions do not recur. In diseases, a repetition of episodes is possible, as well as an increase in symptoms.

Crampy syndrome

Crampy develops against the background of a number of diseases (avitaminosis, liver cirrhosis, neurological disorders, etc.), hypothermia, intense physical exertion. The exact reasons are unknown.

The disease is accompanied by short-term muscle spasms in the calves. The intensity of convulsions in the lower extremities is different, the pain syndrome is pronounced. Most of the attacks occur at night.

Treatment is aimed at eliminating the cause of the pathology, as well as stopping the symptom. Doctors prescribe vitamins, minerals, anti-inflammatory drugs.

Flat feet

In flat feet, spasms of the lower extremities develop in response to uneven load distribution. Legs cramp during activity, less often at rest.

Spasms develop suddenly. Muscle contractions last from a few seconds to several minutes. After the attack, severe discomfort persists.

Treatment – orthopedic. The task is to achieve the correct distribution of the load on the lower limbs. Rarely resort to surgical correction.

Vascular diseases

Spasms (painful contractions) affecting the calf muscles occur in response to hypoxia and impaired energy metabolism in tissues. Seizures also develop as a result of such pathologies:

• varicose disease;
• endarteritis;
• atherosclerosis;
• thrombosis.

The clinical picture is complemented by sensations of heaviness and pressure in the legs. The phlebologist is engaged in the treatment of such conditions. Its task is to restore blood flow, venous-lymphatic outflow, eliminate inflammation, etc.

Endocrine diseases

Leg cramps are typical for thyroid pathologies (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, diabetes mellitus). Diabetes insipidus can be an indirect cause, since the patient loses a lot of fluid, and with it, electrolytes.

The clinical presentation depends on the cause of the seizures. Treatment is the task of the endocrinologist. It is carried out with the help of medications, replacement therapy is also indicated. According to the situation, surgical treatment is carried out (tumors, tissue injuries).

Fluid and electrolyte disorders

Cramps (painful contractions in the legs) may be a symptom of a deficiency or excess of potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium. Seizures occur spontaneously and often recur. Seizures develop at night and last up to several minutes.

Treatment is the work of a therapist or other specialist (depending on the cause of the disorder). Restoration of electrolyte balance is carried out with the help of drugs, a therapeutic diet.

Hypovitaminosis

Most often, leg cramps develop in response to a lack of vitamins B1, B2, B6, D. Hypovitaminosis is accompanied by additional symptoms: reduced sensitivity of the lower extremities, burning in the legs, insomnia, dry skin, decreased vision, immunity. It all depends on the specific pathology.

Treatment is the work of the therapist. It is necessary to eliminate the primary disease, restore the level of vitamins and minerals in the body.

Intoxication

Convulsions are possible in case of poisoning with salts of heavy metals, vapors of volatile substances. Most often suffer laboratory workers, employees of hazardous enterprises. Intoxication occurs when using poisonous plants: belladonna, fly agaric, ergot. However, drugs are more often to blame. Painful muscle spasms develop as a side effect of certain medications.

Spasms occur after the influence of a substance on the body. Muscle contractions can be persistent – it can be difficult to remove them even in a hospital setting. Treatment – detoxification with drugs, observation. Many poisonings are life-threatening.

Pathologies of pregnancy

Muscle cramps may occur in pregnant women. Often cramps of the calf muscles develop as a result of hypovitaminosis, electrolyte imbalance. There are more threatening conditions: inferior vena cava syndrome, eclampsia.

Patients with recurrent muscle spasms are managed by OB/GYNs. They figure out why the problem has developed, prescribe treatment.

Other causes

There are other factors that cause cramps in the legs. Other causes of calf spasms include:

• alcohol intoxication;
• high body temperature;
• tumors of the central nervous system and endocrine system;
• jumps in blood pressure;
• traumatic brain injury;
• infections;
• dehydration;
• heat stroke.

This also includes leg injuries. Less commonly, the symptom occurs due to anemia.

Night cramps in the legs

Spasms at night develop with varicose veins, lack of trace elements, vitamins. They also occur with intense physical exertion, wearing uncomfortable shoes. There are more serious causes of night cramps. For example, epilepsy. To put an end to the question, you need to undergo an examination.

Why does the calf cramps – doctors should understand. The reasons are not always obvious. It is possible to understand why a symptom developed only after a thorough diagnosis. Diagnosis is by sighting or exclusion.

First aid for cramps in the legs

First aid is aimed at relieving an attack. To get rid of cramps, you need to:

• raise your legs above head level;
• pull the toe up;
• if it doesn’t help, do a light massage of the calves and feet.

Actions to be repeated until improvement. After stabilization of the condition, it is worth taking a warm bath and moving around a little.

Diagnostics

The doctor evaluates complaints, collects anamnesis, prescribes general and biochemical blood and urine tests, if necessary, performs a toxicological test. An important role is played by instrumental research methods for establishing the cause of spasms: electromyography, EEG, ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities, MRI of the brain, organs of the endocrine system, etc.

Treatment

Treatment can be conservative or surgical. Surgical methods are used in rare cases.

Conservative therapy

Conservative treatment includes medication, physiotherapy, massage, exercise therapy. Relieve an attack, there is little tension in the muscles during convulsions. If nothing is done about the cause of the symptom, a relapse is likely. Attacks can be repeated and become more frequent. Medicines are selected individually.

Surgical treatment

Surgical treatment is possible with flat feet, varicose veins, vascular diseases, tumors.