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 at night, or during a sporting activity, or directly after the muscles have been strained. If systemic diseases are present, which are responsible for the cramps, further individual symptoms may occur, but these are related to the disease and not to the cramp.
Diagnosis
Although in most cases the intake of electrolytes provides relief, it is sometimes useful to consult a doctor to find out the individual cause for the occurrence of the cramps. A detailed anamnesis (detailed discussion with the doctor) about when the cramps occur and what the eating habits are, as well as whether the cramps occur in connection with sporting activities, can help the doctor to make a diagnosis. A blood test also provides information about whether there is an electrolyte deficiency and which therapy is appropriate for the individual.
Therapy
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 that do not exceed the maximum recommended dose should therefore be the first step. The necessary nutrients are usually available at the pharmacy or drugstore.It is also important to ensure a sufficient supply of liquid.
If these measures are not successful, a visit to 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. The duration of a seizure 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 and thus consciously tense the affected muscle to provoke 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.
