Brief Answer:
Stretching of muscles can prevent cramps

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for posting your query
I Dr.chugh,Orthopaedic surgeon
The Cramps are caused by hyper excitability of the nerves that stimulate the muscles. Cramps at rest are very common, especially in older adults. Rest cramps often occur during the night. While not life threatening, night cramps (commonly known as nocturnal cramps) can be painful, disruptive of sleep.
Most cramps can be stopped if the muscle can be stretched. For many cramps of the feet and legs, this stretching can often be accomplished by standing up and walking around. Gently massaging the muscle will often help it to relax, as will applying warmth from a heating pad or hot soak. If the cramp is associated with fluid loss, as is often the case with vigorous physical activity, fluid and electrolyte (especially sodium and potassium) replacement is essential. Certain drugs like baclofen are helpful.
A simple way to prevent night cramp is stretch your calf muscle before going to bed 3-4 times and each time holding for 10-15 seconds. Quinine water tonic is also useful to prevent night cramps before going to bed.
I hope this information will be helpful to prevent night cramps. If you have further query I shall be glad to answer.
Take care and wish you good health
Regards
Dr.chugh

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