what causes muscle spasms in legs

what causes muscle spasms in legs

1 year ago 33
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Muscle spasms in legs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Overuse of muscles: Overusing a muscle or holding it in the same position for a long time can cause muscle spasms. This is especially common in athletes and people who exercise regularly.

  • Dehydration: Dehydration is a classic cause of muscle cramps, and hot weather and exercise can further deplete water in the body as you sweat to keep cool.

  • Mineral deficiency: Too little potassium, calcium, or magnesium in the diet can cause leg cramps. Medicines often prescribed for high blood pressure can cause increased urination, which may drain the body of these minerals.

  • Nerve compression: Pressure on the nerves in the spine can cause cramping pain in the legs.

  • Underlying neurological condition: In some cases, muscle cramps can indicate an underlying neurological condition, such as dystonia, multiple sclerosis, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) .

Most muscle spasms are harmless, but if they are severe or painful, or if they are affecting your quality of life, you should speak to your doctor. To prevent muscle spasms, you can try stretching, massaging, and applying heat to the affected area. Drinking plenty of water and ensuring that you are getting enough minerals in your diet can also help prevent muscle spasms.

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