What Causes Severe Leg Cramps At Night With History Of Osteoarthritis?

Posted on Wed, 18 May 2016

Question: I am having severe leg cramps (left, whole leg) that awaken me at night. They feel like Charley horses, but include thigh area as well. I've had them twice in the last week. Alternating heat with ice has been helpful. Last July, I tore my meniscus, and bruised the bone. Was also diagnosed, at that time, with osteoarthritis in my left knee. Slow recovery. 4 mos C.P.
I am 66 years old, and quite overweight. Have been pretty sedentary the last few months. Am working on my weight, and walking on good days. The cramping tends to happen after a day of moderate activities. Any correlation there? There is no swelling or redness. Should I be concerned about blood clots? Any advice or suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Can be due to muscle fatigue.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
Muscle cramps most of the time occur for no known reason, and they're harmless. These are not associated with deep vein thrombosis or blood clots. Sudden severe exercise can cause such cramps.

Sometimes, it can be due to dehydration, muscle fatigue or electrolyte abnormalities. It is better to drink sufficient fluid and also see that your intake of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium ) is sufficient. You can drink Oralyte for this.

I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar