Symptoms

The main symptom of a cramp in the foot is the involuntary contraction of the affected muscle. The contraction is almost always perceived as unpleasant and is often accompanied by pain as long as the cramp persists. Depending on which muscle is affected, the foot or toes are in an uncomfortable position. The cramps often occur during the night or during a sporting activity, as well as immediately after the muscles have been strained. If a systemic disease is present, further individual symptoms may occur, but these are related to the disease and not directly to the cramp.

What to do to prevent cramps in the foot?

If cramps occur in the foot, additional nutrient intake can initially help to prevent the cramps from recurring. Taking magnesium, calcium and sodium chloride (in amounts not exceeding the maximum recommended daily dose) should therefore be the first step if cramps occur in the foot. The necessary nutrients are usually available from a pharmacy or drugstore.

It should be noted, however, that the recommended amount of magnesium varies from person to person, depending on, for example, sporting activity and stress. It is also important to make sure that you have a sufficient fluid intake. If these measures do not bring success, a doctor may be considered. With the help of a detailed anamnesis and a blood test, the doctor can find out whether there is a nutrient deficiency and if so, which one, and whether any systemic diseases are responsible for the cramps.

Duration and measures in case of cramp in the foot

The duration of a cramp varies greatly. Depending on the cause, a cramp can last between a few seconds and several minutes. Normally, however, a cramp in the foot is over within one minute.In order to shorten the duration of the cramp acutely, it can help to shift the weight to the cramping foot, thereby consciously tensing the affected muscle and provoking a relaxation of the muscle. A single spasm is self-limiting because after some time the muscle lacks the energy for tension and therefore relaxes by itself. A repeatedly cramping foot can often be eliminated by following the recommended therapy.