Leg cramps is such a thing which make laziest person awake in middle of night. Yes, it is that much painful. Because I was having during my pregnancy. Here I am sharing some tips and tricks, which worked for me hopefully it will work for you.

What is leg cramp?

A leg cramp is an episode of sudden pain in muscle of leg caused by involuntary contraction of the leg muscle. Most leg cramps happen in calf muscles and, less commonly in feet and thigh. Cramp lasts for few seconds to 10 minutes. Thigh muscle cramps tend to last longer.

What causes leg cramps during pregnancy?

There are so many theories, some research shows that leg cramps happen due to fatigue to carry extra weight, some research shows that it happens due to compression of leg vessels, or some say it happens due to shortage of calcium or magnesium.

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Leg cramps generally start at second or third trimester, when usually you start to gain a weight. This increases fatigue and swelling. Most women experience this in the third trimester.

How I can get relief?

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• Straighten your leg and try to flax your ankle, do it for several time.
• You can apply some ice on muscle, some time spasm stops by cold application.
• Some time spasm goes but it leaves pain, for that you can apply some local heat or massage your calf muscle and feet.

Can I prevent leg cramps during pregnancy?

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Leg cramps in pregnancy aren’t preventable. But you can always minimize the frequency by doing these following steps,

• Stretch your both legs before go to the bed, especially target your calf muscle
• Put your feet up as often as you can while you are seated
• Drink plenty of water throughout a day
• Eat calcium-rich food (eg, yogurt) and magnesium-rich food (eg, banana)
• If you are having frequent episodes of cramps than ask your doctor for magnesium supplements if necessary.

Should I consult a doctor?

Leg cramps usually disappear on their own, and rarely serious enough to require medical care. If you see any of the following conditions than please consult a doctor.

• Cause you discomfort
• Are associated with swelling, redness
• Are cause you a weakness
• Happens frequently
• Not improve after massage

Thank you,

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