Related symptoms Cramps usually are accompanied by a sharp or aching pain and a slight bulging of the affected muscle. Trying to move the cramped muscle only makes it contract more tightly. Associations Leg cramps at night can result from strenuous exercise earlier in the day, or there may be no apparent single cause. Some disorders can bring on nighttime leg cramps, however, including Parkinson's disease, diabetes mellitus, spinal cord lesions, and hypocalcemia, a disease associated with calcium deficiency. Patients receiving dialysis for kidney disorders and some types of chemotherapy for cancers also may suffer leg and foot cramping at night.
Intermittent claudication is caused by hardening of the arteries or by atherosclerosis .
The arteries in the legs are unable to supply the leg muscles with enough oxygen while walking. When the muscles are rested for a few moments, the oxygen deficit is made up. Prevention and possible actions Before exercising vigorously during the day, try stretching your muscles first. This may help prevent cramping later. Also, try exercising more frequently.