Discover Relief For Leg Or Foot Cramps: 5 Topicals

Leg cramps are one of the most common unannounced pains for aging adults. Immediate relief for these leg or foot cramps is all a sufferer is looking for when this happens. This article looks at 5 topicals available in the marketplace that relieve leg cramps fast.

If you have ever experienced the unnerving moment of being awoken in the middle of the night by a hard twitch, or suddenly had to halt whatever you were doing during the day due to the cramping in the lower leg you will find this article helpful.

3 popular brands are discussed – Theraworx, Medistik, KaLaya, Volteran, and RUB A535.

Table of Contents

What Causes Leg or Foot Cramps?

Leg or foot cramps, also called charley horses, are a sudden and involuntary contraction of the muscles in the legs, usually affecting the calf, hamstring or feet. Such incidents can vary in duration from seconds to minutes and can be mild in the form of short twinges to very painful in the form of spasms. Aside from athletic activities, many seniors find leg or foot cramps at night most bothersome

There are at least 5 possible reasons:

1. Muscle Fatigue and Overuse

Muscle cramps often result from overworked muscles and fatigue. When engaging in activities such as exercising, playing sports, or even standing for long periods, your leg muscles exert more force than usual.

As these muscles operate beyond their normal capacity, they quickly become fatigued and are more prone to cramping. This is very common among endurance athletes.

2. Age-Related Factors

As we age, the likelihood of experiencing leg and foot cramps increases significantly. This issue arises due to various factors, including muscle wasting (sarcopenia), joint stiffness, and changes in nerve function.

After the age of 50, the frequency of leg cramps typically rises, often causing discomfort and sleep disruption among older adults. To mitigate these cramps and their impact, it is beneficial to engage in regular exercise, maintain a consistent stretching routine, and be mindful of dietary choices.

3. Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalances

The most common cause of electrolyte imbalances is inadequate fluid intake or excessive fluid loss through sweat. This disruption affects the body’s electrolyte balance, which is essential for optimal muscle function. When electrolytes are deficient, the risk of muscle cramps significantly increases.

Maintaining proper hydration and ensuring an adequate intake of key electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, are vital for preventing cramps and supporting overall muscle performance.

Leg cramp in a senior on a bed - Metamorphosis Hub - Discover Relief for Leg or Foot Cramps — **Calf cramp**

4. Poor Blood Flow and Nerve Compression

Leg and foot cramps can also result from inadequate blood flow to the affected muscles. When muscles do not receive sufficient oxygenated blood, they are deprived of essential nutrients, increasing the likelihood of cramping.

Several factors can contribute to poor circulation, including prolonged sitting, pregnancy, and vascular conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD).

5. Medications and Medical Conditions Can be Causes of Severe Leg Cramps at Night

Certain medications can also lead to leg or foot cramps as a side effect. For example, diuretics, commonly prescribed for hypertension and fluid retention, can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, heightening the risk of cramps. Additionally, statins, which are used to lower cholesterol levels, have been linked to muscle cramps in some individuals. Being aware of these potential side effects is important for managing and preventing cramps.

How to Relieve Leg Cramps Fast – Your Options

While leg cramps are quite common, you have essentially four options to help with the pain right away and also decrease the chance of further cramps. Treatments span from the use of stretches and massage, applying heat or cold compress, hydrating well to, flexing your foot forward (if you can), to the use of topical muscle relaxants.

When you are in great pain, and barely able to stand, reaching out for a topical is often a preferred option before embracing other available options.

Stretching and Massage

When a leg cramp strikes, gently stretch the affected muscle and then massage it to help it relax. For calf cramps, straighten your leg and pull your toes and foot toward your head. Use your hands or a foam roller to massage the muscles. Heat and cold therapy, such as a warm bath, heating pad, or ice pack, can also help ease muscle tension. Regular stretches before and after exercise may help prevent exercise-induced cramps.

Other treatments are discussed in several other articles:

This article addresses 5 topical applications that some have found relief in using.

The Best Topical Treatments for Leg or Foot Cramps

Topical treatments can be an effective option for managing leg cramps, providing localized relief with minimal systemic side effects. These over-the-counter muscle treatments typically include creams, gels, and ointments that are applied directly to the skin over the affected muscles. Here are some common types and their uses:

Analgesic Creams and Gels: These products often contain ingredients like menthol, camphor, or capsaicin. They work by producing a warming or cooling sensation that can distract from pain and reduce cramping.
Magnesium Oil and Cream: Magnesium plays a crucial role in muscle function and relaxation. Topical magnesium treatments can help alleviate cramps by delivering this essential mineral directly to the muscle tissues.
Herbal and Essential Oil Blends: Some topical treatments include herbal extracts or essential oils, such as lavender, eucalyptus, or arnica, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties. These can provide soothing relief and reduce cramping.

THERAWORX

Theraworx comes in a roll on application or fast acting foam. Get relief for in a quick and easy no-touch application which helps relieve muscle cramps, spasms, and post-cramp soreness.

The Theraworx Muscle Cramps roll-on is fast acting, and absorbs quickly to relieve leg cramps fast when sudden cramps occur day or night. It is non-greasy, non-oily, and does not have a strong odor. The active ingredient is Magnesium Sulfate. The product is made with natural ingredients and is safe to use daily

Theraworx Relief for Muscle Cramps Roll-On Fast-Acting Muscle Spasm, Leg Soreness

Theraworx Foam for Muscle Cramps comes in a 7.1 oz bottle or a more economical 3-bottle pack. The product is similarly fast acting without being oily or having a strong odor

Theraworx Relief Foam, 7.1oz per Bottle

Theraworx Relief 3-Pack Fast-Acting Foam for Leg Cramps, Foot Cramps and Muscle

MEDISTICK

MEDISTIK Extra Strength Pain Relief Stick Long Lasting Topical Pain Reliever for Backache Arthritis Muscle and Joint Pain - Discover Relief for Leg or Foot Cramps — **MEDISTIK Extra Strength Pain Relief Stick Long Lasting Topical Pain Reliever**

MEDISTIK is a unique and highly effective topical analgesic. Specifically formulated for the rapid relief of pain associated with stiff and sore muscles, strains and sprains, backache, and various joint, muscle, and degenerative conditions.

Active Ingredients are Methyl Salicylate, Menthol, and Eucalyptus Oil.

It comes in Extra Strength as a Single stick, 2 or 4 or 6-pktstick, Ice Roll-on, and a Dual Stick and Ice Bundle

MEDISTIK Extra Strength Pain Relief Stick. Long Lasting Topical Pain Reliever for Backache, Arthritis Muscle & Joint Pain, 58g

Medistik Dual Stick and Ice Bundle – 58g + 89ml

KALAYA

The fast-acting and long-lasting, KaLaya 6X Extra Strength Pain Relief temporarily relieves aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with arthritis, back pain, and muscle pain.

Formulated with proven, natural active, pain-blocking and anti-inflammatory ingredients including Arnica, Eucalyptus, MSM, Methyl Salicylate, Menthol and Camphor.

When to See a Doctor About Leg or Foot Cramps

Leg or foot cramps may occur often, yet sometimes, they can signal an underlying condition. See your doctor if:

Cramps are severe, frequent, and not relieved by self-care measures
A condition with the feature of you getting swelling, redness or skin changes in your legs.
When the cramps, which are the first symptoms of the disease, come along, the muscles may get weak or lose their sensation.
The date you started a new medication and have had the leg cramps since.
Post-injury or triggering events, cramps started to develop.
Neurological disorders have a history in your family.

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Conclusion – How to Relieve Leg Cramps

Leg cramps don’t have a single “magic remedy” that would cure all cases but the majority of them can be much improved with some self-care and lifestyle changes. Medical help should be sought when necessary. These can be prevented by stretching and staying hydrated, and any health issues that could lead to cramps should be addressed. As a result, most people can considerably reduce the occurrence and severity of the cramps.

FAQ

What are the Causes of severe leg cramps at night

Severe leg cramps at night can be caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalances (low potassium, calcium, or magnesium), muscle fatigue, prolonged sitting, certain medications, and underlying conditions like peripheral artery disease or nerve compression. Ensuring proper hydration, stretching before bed, and addressing any underlying health issues can help alleviate symptoms.

Are there any home remedies for leg or foot cramps?

Home remedies for leg or foot cramps include drinking tonic water (contains quinine), taking a warm bath with Epsom salts, consuming magnesium supplements, or using a heating pad on the cramping muscle. Regularly stretching and staying hydrated also help.

How can I relieve leg cramps fast?

To relieve leg cramps fast, stretch and massage the affected muscle, apply heat, or use ice. Standing and walking can also help release the cramp quickly.

What causes leg or foot cramps at night?

Leg or foot cramps at night can be caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, muscle fatigue, or prolonged sitting. Stretching before bed and staying hydrated can help prevent them.