A painful foot cramp or spasm can strike seemingly out of nowhere and have you cringing and rolling on the floor. While the cause of many cramps is poor hydration, cramping can also be exacerbated or caused by systemic illnesses such as diabetes, peripheral artery disease, and other circulation issues. The pain and locking sensation of a foot cramp can often be relieved by standing on the foot and pulling hard on the big toe.
Some of the more common reasons for experiencing cramping in your feet and lower legs may include the following:
1) Poor muscle nutrition—Sufficient levels of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium are needed for proper muscle functioning. Diet modifications may be necessary to ensure proper levels of electrolytes.
2) Not getting enough fluids—When you’re not staying properly hydrated by drinking healthy fluids, your muscles don’t function correctly and can cramp up. Consume plenty of healthy fluids and water throughout the day to prevent cramps and other issues.
3) Not warming up properly and sufficiently before sports or exercise—Stretching and flexing before playing sports, running, or exercising will help prevent cramping due to muscle stiffness.
4) Wearing poorly fitting footwear—One of the major factors that contribute to possible cramping and other foot and ankle injuries is not wearing properly fitted shoes. Additionally, you may need a right pair of custom orthotics or footwear inserts for your precise foot shape, lifestyle, and footwear. A podiatrist or foot and ankle specialist can perform a computerized gait analysis to get help get you sized and fitted with the right footwear.
If you experience recurring problems with cramping in your feet, contact our offices for the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Zinoviy Rabinovich D.P.M., Board Certified Physician and Surgeon of Foot and Ankle – Experience, expertise, convenience of scheduling, evening hours, and a personal, innovative approach for all your and your children’s foot care needs. Northbrook 847-297-9660, Crest Hill 815-838-9505 or book online at www.absolutefootandankleclinic.com.
Доктор Зиновий Рабинович – board certified врач и хирург стопы и голеностопного сустава. Опыт, экспертиза, удобство записи, и индивидуальный, заботливый, инновационный подход для вас и ваших детей. Northbrook 847-297-9660, Crest Hill 815-838-9505.
Лікар Зіновій Рабинович – board certified лікар і хірург стопи і гомілковостопного суглоба. Досвід, експертиза, зручність запису, і індивідуальний, турботливий, інноваційний підхід для вас і ваших дітей. Northbrook 847-297-9660, Crest Hill 815-838-9505. В офісі розмовляють українською.
