Beyond Dehydration: 20 Unexpected Triggers for Your Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps can strike at the worst moments—during a workout, in the middle of the night, or even while simply stretching. That sudden, intense pain can leave you wondering, why does this keep happening? While dehydration and low electrolytes are often blamed, the truth is that muscle cramps have a surprising number of unexpected triggers. To help you finally get to the bottom of those pesky cramps, we’ve expanded our list to 20 surprising causes—some of which may completely change the way you think about muscle health. From sneaky nutrient deficiencies to everyday habits you’d never suspect, we’re uncovering the real reasons behind muscle cramps and, more importantly, how to prevent them. Get ready to rethink what’s causing your discomfort and take control of your body with science-backed solutions.

1. Pinched Or Compressed Nerves

Pinched or compressed nerves, such as those known as sciatica, can cause muscle cramps. A slipped or herniated disc is the most common culprit of sciatica. Since it has shifted out of place, the disc puts increased pressure on the root of the nerve. When an individual's spinal nerves become compressed, one of the effects is cramping pain throughout the legs. The longer individuals walk, the worse the pain gets. If individuals experience this kind of pain, the best thing they can do is rest until their muscles relax. However, there are some circumstances where patients have to keep walking, and when this is the case, they should use a mildly flexed position. They should imagine they are pushing a shopping cart and assume the posture they usually would in the grocery store. This can help delay symptom onset, reduce the symptoms currently occurring, and lower the amount of time the cramp lasts.