Foot cramps are characterized by painful spasms in your feet that can occur at any time of day. They often occur in the tops and arches of the feet or around the toes. Unfortunately, there isn’t usually one specific cause of foot cramps; numerous things can cause your feet to cramp up. Foot cramps can be frustrating and painful, and they don’t have to be the “end-all.” 

What Causes Foot Cramps?

Several different conditions or triggers can cause cramps in your feet, including:

  • Shoes that are too tight
  • Dehydration
  • Overexertion
  • Low levels of potassium
  • Nerve damage
  • Poor circulation
  • Certain medications

Treatments

If you or anyone you know is experiencing one of the following triggers or conditions causing foot cramps, a podiatrist will recommend the best course of treatment. At home, preventative measures include:

  • Shoes that are too tight. You may need to switch shoe styles or brands and add supportive insoles or arch supports to ease the cramping. Custom orthotics are also available when needed.
  • Dehydration. For mild dehydration, drink lots of extra water and add an electrolyte drink to help replenish fluids. Try making this delicious electrolyte drink at home.
  • Overexertion. Working the muscles in your feet too hard may make them vulnerable to cramping.
  • Low levels of potassium. If you are experiencing low potassium, calcium, or magnesium levels, causing your foot cramps, your doctor will suggest supplementation.
  • Nerve damage. If nerve damage is the reason you are experiencing painful foot cramps, your doctor will pinpoint the reason this has occurred. Treatments such as pain relief medications, physical therapy, and in more severe cases, surgery have helped relieve symptoms of foot cramps.
  • Poor circulation. Poor circulation can cut the proper nutrients off your extremities and make your feet cramp. Talk with a podiatrist to discuss the best measures of relief.
  • Certain medications. If your podiatrist determines that a medication may be causing foot cramps, they will evaluate the side effects and weigh the options of different medications.

Takeaway

As part of Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we want our patients to feel safe to discuss any concerns they may be having. At our Middlesex County office, we offer a range of advanced technologies, including PinPointe Laser, Digital X-Ray, Electronic Medical Records, Patient Portal for Home Access To Your Medical Records, and Online Appointment Requests. Emergency appointments are always seen on the same day. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas, call our office at (860)-632-5499 or visit our website for more information.

Questions or Comments?

We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about our services.

Call Today (860) 632-5499

162 West St Ste K Cromwell, CT 06416