Who Is Most at Risk of Night Cramps?
Night leg cramps are sudden, painful muscle contractions—most often in the calf—that occur while resting or sleeping. They become more common with age, although many cases have no clearly identifiable cause.
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People at higher risk include:
Older adults — Aging is one of the clearest risk factors, partly because muscle mass and muscle/tendon function change over time.
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Pregnant women — Night cramps are particularly common during the later stages of pregnancy.
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People who are dehydrated — Not getting enough fluids can contribute to muscle cramping.
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People who are inactive or sit for long periods — Poor conditioning and prolonged inactivity can increase susceptibility.
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People who heavily exercise or fatigue their muscles — Excessive muscle strain, especially in hot conditions with heavy sweating, can trigger cramps.
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People taking certain medications — Diuretics and some medicines used for blood pressure or cholesterol have been associated with leg cramps. Don’t stop a prescribed medicine without medical advice.
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People with certain medical conditions — Diabetes-related nerve damage, kidney disease or dialysis, peripheral artery disease, thyroid disorders, Parkinson’s disease, and peripheral neuropathy can be associated with cramps.
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What can help?
Gentle calf stretching before bed, regular physical activity appropriate for your abilities, and adequate fluid intake may help reduce cramps. During a cramp, gently stretch the affected muscle, massage it, or stand and put weight on the affected leg if you’re able to do so safely.
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Don’t automatically assume you need magnesium or another supplement. Night cramps frequently have no single identifiable cause, and supplements aren’t appropriate for everyone.
See a healthcare professional if cramps regularly disturb your sleep, last longer than about 10 minutes, or occur with swelling, numbness, weakness, or persistent pain.
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