Health Corner

Leg Cramps (Night Cramps) Part I

This column is a two part series on leg cramps. Here we discuss the causes of cramps. Next week we conclude on its treatment.

Leg cramps are common. The cause is not known in most cases. However, some medicines and some medical conditions can sometimes cause leg cramps. Regular calf stretching exercises may prevent leg cramps. Quinine tablets may be advised if you have leg cramps regularly.

What are leg cramps?
A leg cramp is a pain that comes from a muscle in the leg. It is due to a muscle spasm, which is when a muscle contracts too hard. It usually occurs in one of the calf muscles, below and behind a knee. The small muscles of the feet are sometimes affected.

Editor's Comment
Gov’t needs to give health care urgency it requires

The Member of Parliament is warning that patients suffering from chronic conditions continue to face potentially life-threatening interruptions to their treatment because of unreliable access to medicines.Amid the shortages, many Batswana have been left with no choice but to look for other treatment alternatives such as herbs, with many not having had been scientifically tested for effectiveness.Medications for hypertension, diabetes, heart...

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