- It is a sudden involuntary contraction of the muscles of the foot resulting in excruciating pain with inability to move the foot.
- The affected part of the foot is usually the arch of the foot and the big toes during the episode of such cramps.
- Foot cramps can come on out of the blue and cause excruciating pain.
Causes of Foot Cramps or Toe Cramps
Footwear:
- Wearing tight shoes or boots, especially with high heels may result in a foot cramps.
- This is generally found in women’s shoes which often converge at the tip thus squeezing out the toes.
Exercises:
- Long distance runners and individuals who have a habit of walking long distances are also at risk for having foot cramps.
- Even spending a lot of time on the treadmill can also be a reason for foot cramps.
- Ballet dancing has also been found to cause foot cramps.
Calcium Deficiency:
- Hypocalcemia increases the risk for foot cramps.
Medications:
- Certain asthma, hypertension, or cholesterol medications tend to cause foot cramps.
- Hence an individual needs to ask the physician about the medication causing these cramps
Ways to Get Rid of Cramps in the Foot and Toe
Massage:
- Massaging is perhaps the best way to get rid of foot cramps.
- Massaging helps the muscles to relax and calm down and thus relieving the symptoms.
- Massaging helps in increasing circulation to muscles and as such increasing blood flow and nutrients to the muscles.
Application of Heat:
- Applying heat to the affected area is also a way to get rid of foot cramps.
- This can be done either through a heating pad or soaking the foot in warm water which relaxes the muscles and calms it down resulting in pain relief.
Stretching:
- Stretching the foot is also quite a beneficial way to treat foot cramps.
- Gentle stretching when the cramp sets in goes a long way in getting rid of the symptoms.
- Doing stretches on a regular basis prevents cramping for occurring frequently.
Diet:
- Eating a healthy and balanced diet makes sure that there is balanced amount of vitamins and minerals in the body and facilitates appropriate functioning of the muscles and nerves.
Fluid Intake:
- Dehydration is found to be a common cause of foot cramps.
- Drinking adequate amount of fluids is imperative to prevent foot cramps especially in the summer season.
Proper Footwear:
- It is imperative to select footwear that are appropriately fitting and are not cramping up the foot.
- High heels and narrow toed shoes should be avoided and should only be used on occasions.
Strengthening Exercises:
- Strengthening exercises for the foot strengthens the muscles and thus reduces the risk of foot cramps.
Toe Stretchers:
It has been noted that wearing Toe Stretchers for a few hours also decreases the frequency of foot cramps or toe cramps.
Toe Stretchers stretch out the foot muscles and ligaments. It also maintains the alignment of the foot/toes.