After running around all day and going to bed peacefully at night after work, the muscles below the knee suddenly become hard and tight like stones, which is a major problem that wakes many people from their sleep today. Even if this pain, which lasts for minutes, goes away, severe stiffness remains in that area. Here are the 5 main reasons behind this muscle cramping and chronic leg cramps, which are scientifically called Nocturnal Leg Cramps:
Electrolyte Imbalance: Certain salts are essential for the smooth contraction and relaxation of the muscles in our body. When the levels of electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium in the blood decrease, there are problems in the nerve messages to the muscles and this can lead to sudden muscle cramps.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water every day can dry out muscle cells. Especially in hot weather, when you sweat excessively, your body loses water and salts. This can cause severe leg cramps and muscle spasms at night.
Vitamin D3 and B12 deficiencies: Vitamin D3 and B12 are essential for the health of nerves and bones. Today, Malayalis are very deficient in vitamin D3. Due to this deficiency, muscles can always experience severe stiffness and weakness.
Reduced blood flow (Peripheral Artery Disease – PAD): When blood flow decreases due to fat accumulation (blockage) in the blood vessels in the legs, the muscles do not get enough oxygen. The main symptom of this is severe pain and cramping in the leg muscles even after walking a short distance, and the pain goes away when you rest.
Overexertion and use of improper footwear: Standing for long periods of time at a height, carrying heavy loads, etc. can cause muscle fatigue. Also, regular use of ill-fitting or thick shoes (especially high heels) can put unnecessary pressure on the foot muscles and lead to muscle cramps.
