Having an occasional cramp in your foot or leg is not usually something to be overly concerned about and they usually subside after several minutes. They can be triggered by dehydration but they may also be associated with injuries like ankle sprains or other foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and hairline fractures.
Staying properly hydrated during exercise will help avoid foot cramps, but they may also be caused by other medical problems so be sure to have an evaluation by your foot doctor if you are experiencing foot cramps on a regular basis.
Persistent foot cramping is often the sign of an underlying medical condition. Some of these conditions include the following:
- Poor blood circulation—Problems with blood flow caused by peripheral artery disease or other systemic diseases may be responsible for increased muscle cramping in the feet and lower legs. This type of cramping often occurs during stressful activities and will subside when the affected foot is rested.
- Compressed or injured nerves—An injury to the spine that causes a pinched nerve can also increase the occurrence of muscle cramping in the feet and legs. A neuroma in the foot can also contribute to cramping.
- Nutritional deficiencies—Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium are essential for proper muscle functioning. These are often depleted with dehydration from exercise, and by certain medications like blood pressure treatments. Always drink plenty of healthy fluids and take mineral supplements if necessary.
If you are experiencing complications with painful foot cramps, enlisting the services of a skilled podiatrist will help you find the right solution. Schedule an appointment with the Foot First Podiatry Center in New Albany, IN. Our highly-qualified podiatrist Dr. Zahid Ladha is dedicated to providing the best diagnostic care and medical treatment for you and your feet. Contact us at (812) 945-9221 and schedule an appointment today!