Minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium are important for normal nerve and muscle function, and abnormal levels can sometimes contribute to cramping. But cramps alone don’t prove that you have a deficiency, so automatically taking magnesium or electrolyte supplements isn’t always appropriate. Sitting or standing in one position for long periods can also contribute, while gentle movement and stretching may help some people.

Sometimes the source isn’t actually the muscle. Nerve problems can cause pain, tingling, weakness, or cramp-like sensations. Reduced circulation can also cause leg discomfort. Peripheral artery disease (PAD), for example, may cause aching or cramping that repeatedly appears while walking or exercising and improves after resting. Pregnancy can make nighttime leg cramps more common as well.

Certain medications—including some diuretics and statins—may contribute to muscle symptoms in some people. Kidney disease, thyroid disorders, diabetes, nerve disorders, and other medical conditions can also be associated with recurring cramps. That doesn’t mean frequent cramps automatically indicate something serious, and prescribed medication shouldn’t be stopped without speaking with the clinician who prescribed it.

When a cramp strikes, gently stretching and massaging the muscle may help it relax. For a calf cramp, slowly straightening the leg and bringing the toes toward the shin can help. Warmth may also feel soothing. If cramps become frequent or severe, repeatedly disturb sleep, occur during walking, or appear with swelling, redness, numbness, or weakness, seek medical advice. The important question may not simply be how to stop the cramp—but why it keeps happening.