Waking up in the middle of the night with a searing calf cramp is a painful experience many are familiar with. However, what causes these spasms—and how can we prevent them?
In an episode of “Health 1+1,” Jonathan Liu, a professor of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) at the Canadian College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and director of the Kang Mei TCM Clinic, discussed the causes of leg cramps, effective relief methods, and dietary choices that may help prevent their occurrence.
Causes of Leg Cramps
The following factors, Liu noted, may contribute to leg cramps:
1. Poor Blood Circulation
Calf muscles, being far from the heart and affected by gravity, tend to have reduced blood flow. People who stand for prolonged periods, or those with vascular conditions—such as arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), peripheral vascular disease (such as varicose veins), liver cirrhosis, or arthritis—may experience impaired circulation. This can disrupt calcium metabolism, triggering muscle cramps.
