Dr. Olga Titarenko explained that calf cramps occur as a result of a malfunction in the mechanism of muscle contraction and relaxation, which causes constriction of blood vessels and leads to a decrease in the supply of oxygen to the tissues.
According to her, cramps are usually benign and often caused by fatigue, dehydration, or pregnancy. However, she points out that there are warning signs that warrant a doctor's visit, such as recurring attacks every night, or the appearance of severe swelling, redness, or numbness in the leg.
To quickly relieve calf muscle cramps, the doctor advises sitting down, extending the leg, and then forcefully pulling the toes towards the body, as this stimulates the muscle's natural relaxation mechanism. Afterward, she recommends massaging the cramped muscle vigorously from the bottom up, while applying warm compresses, which helps restore blood flow more quickly.
To prevent cramps, it is recommended to do stretching exercises before bed and to stretch regularly, especially for those whose jobs require prolonged sitting, in addition to staying hydrated. It is also advised to use orthotic insoles designed for flat feet and to avoid putting pressure on the feet with heavy blankets while sleeping.
It emphasizes the need for those with diabetes, varicose veins, kidney failure, and thyroid diseases to pay special attention to the health of their feet.
It also recommends basic tests for electrolyte, blood sugar, and hormone levels. If there is no improvement within two weeks, a doctor should be consulted without delay.
