Leg Cramps

Causes of Leg Cramps

• Sitting for long time
• Diabetes
• Musculoskeletal problems
• Low thyroid state
• Low blood sugar
• Medications such as water pills
• Exercise
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Pregnancy
• Neurological
• Unknown cause (most common)

Laboratory Work up of Leg Cramps

• Electrolytes such as sodium and potassium
• Magnesium
• Iron
• Calcium
• TSH
• Glucose

Prevention of Leg Cramps

• Adequate Hydration
• Heat or Ice
• Avoid Alcohol
• Avoiding Medications causing leg cramps
• Stretching Exercises
• Using stationary bike
• Loose clothing and cover while sleep

Treatment of Leg Cramps

• Iron for Iron deficiency
• Magnesium in Pregnancy
• B Complex Vitamins
• Tonic Water
• Benadryl 12.5 to 50 mg
• Flexeril 5-10 mg
• Baclofen 10 mg
• Tizanidine 2-4 mg
• Soma 250 to 350 mg
• Norflex 100 mg
• Diltiazem 30 mg
• Lyrica 50 to 150 mg
• Gabapentin 300 to 900 mg
• Quinidine 200 mg
• Plaquenil 200 mg