Causes on Nocturnal Leg Cramp
The exact cause of leg cramps at night is still unknown. There are, however, some known factors that can increase your risk. In most cases, nocturnal leg cramps are idiopathic, which means their exact cause isn’t known.
Nocturnal leg cramps may be related to how you place your legs when you sleep. We often sleep in the plantar flexion position, where our feet and toes extend away from the rest of our bodies. This shortens the calf muscles, making them more susceptible to cramping.
Other factors that can result in nocturnal leg cramps include:
- Overexerting the muscles: excessive exercise can create an overworked muscle and may be associated with muscle cramps.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Having the habit of sitting for long periods of time could increase the risk of the legs cramping. Muscles need to be stretched regularly to function properly.
- Standing for long: According to research, people who stand for a long period of time at work are more likely to experience nocturnal leg cramps.
- Improper sitting position: Sitting with your legs crossed on your toes pointed for long periods of time affects the calf muscle, which could lead to cramping.
- Abnormal nerve activity: Based on electromyographic studies, leg cramps can be traced to increased abnormal nerve firing.
- Shortening of the tendons: The tendons which connect muscles and bones, shorten naturally overtime. This could lead to cramping in the muscles.
Leg cramps are not likely to be the first sign of a more serious health condition. However, the can be associated with the following conditions:
- Pregnancy
- Neurological disorders [1], such as peripheral neuropathy or motor neuron disease
- Structural issues, such as flat feet or spinal stenosis
- Musculoskeletal disorders, such as osteoarthritis [2]
- Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease [3]
- Metabolic disorders, such as diabetes
- Liver, kidney and thyroid conditions
- Cardiovascular conditions, such as heart disease or peripheral vascular disease [4]
- Certain medications such as statin and diuretics