CNS OTC - Leg Cramps

Question 1

Define leg cramps.

Answer 1

Spasmodic, painful, involuntary contraction of skeletal muscle.
Common cause of leg pain.
Muscle spasms - lactic acid accumulation

Question 2

What is the prevalence of leg cramps?

Answer 2

Nocturnal leg cramps (adults)
Pregnant women
Children (occurs nocturnally)
Elderly

Question 3

What metabolic disturbances can occurs with leg cramps?

Answer 3

Low Na (acute/chronic diarrhoea/excessive heat and sweating causing Na+ depletion), K, Ca (hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism), Mg, glucose.