Surprising Triggers Behind Pesky Muscle Cramps

5. Pregnancy

Between a growing belly, food cravings, and carrying around an extra thirty to forty pounds, pregnancy can be a bit overwhelming. Unfortunately, it may be a direct cause of leg cramps, as well. Doctors are not completely sure why the potential for cramping in the legs increases with pregnancy, but it probably has a lot to do with feeling fatigued and carrying around more weight than normal. Pregnant women can help not only relieve the leg cramps, but also prevent them from occurring as often, by drinking sufficient fluids, elevating their legs whenever possible, and massaging and stretching their legs. Some women even report wearing special pregnancy compression socks can be helpful in keeping leg cramps at bay.

6. Overexertion Of Muscles

Exercising is a great habit to instill in any lifestyle. It is important for everyone to stay active in order to keep their body functioning appropriately, but it is crucial to be sure to not overdo it. When individuals experience positive changes in their body, it is typical for them to want to push harder and harder to achieve more goals. This is not always good as overexertion can damage their muscles, making them tight and leaving individuals with painful cramping in the legs and other parts of their body. Instead, individuals should take it easy and slowly work their way through new challenges to avoid potential leg cramps and serious injury.