Pregnancy

The influence of pregnancy leads to changes in hormone balance and metabolism. Especially in the second half of pregnancy there is a high demand for magnesium, which is why nightly calf cramps can often occur, especially in this phase of pregnancy. A magnesium deficiency is the most common cause of calf cramps in pregnant women. Another reason for the increased susceptibility during pregnancy is the increased weight, which must be additionally carried by the leg muscles. Sometimes the stretching of the uterus also puts pressure on nerves, which leads to cramps in the legs.

Diagnosis

To clarify the muscle cramps, the doctor first looks at the affected muscles. He also checks the vascular status of the leg arteries by measuring the pulse and blood pressure. Since it is mostly the legs that are affected, the pulses are palpated at various points on the groin, leg and foot.

A blood sample can also provide information, especially about the electrolyte balance, kidney values and blood sugar levels. It is also helpful to determine the thyroid hormones in order to rule out hypothyroidism. In addition, a urine test is often included.

If there is suspicion of an underlying disease, the family doctor in charge often refers the patient to a neurologist, orthopaedist or endocrinologist. A neurologist often carries out nerve function tests such as electromyography (EMG). The EMG measurement makes it possible to measure nerve activity in a muscle.

As a supplement, an electroneurography (ENG) is often performed to determine the nerve conduction velocity. In rare cases, imaging diagnostics is also performed, such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. With these imaging procedures, the spinal column and intervertebral discs are examined in particular to rule out spinal cord damage.

The examination of arteries and veins by means of an ultrasound measurement or blood pressure measurement on the legs is also part of the examination repertoire. They stretch the calf muscles by pulling the tip of the foot towards the body or by stretching the leg backwards and pressing the heel firmly to the ground. These measures often relieve the cramp.

Sometimes an unpleasant feeling remains, like a sore muscle. Also the application of heat, for example by a hot bath, often provides relief for the affected person. Some patients are also helped by the use of cold.

The best preventive measures are regular and moderate exercise, a balanced diet and sufficient drinking. Since a magnesium deficiency is often responsible for cramps in the legs, a doctor can prescribe a magnesium supplement, which is freely available without prescription. The intake of magnesium should be discussed with the physician in order to avoid interactions with other medications or an unfavorable influence on existing diseases.

Magnesium is used especially in pregnant and elderly patients. In addition to magnesium, quinine sulfate is sometimes also used for severe, recurrent nocturnal calf cramps, although it should only be administered over a limited period of time. However, quinine sulfate is only very rarely prescribed by a doctor due to sometimes severe side effects. Since a calcium deficiency can also be the cause, calcium tablets also help.