Who Is Most at Risk of Night Cramps?

Nighttime leg cramps are common, especially as people get older. They usually affect the calf or foot and can occur without an obvious cause. Several groups are more likely to experience them.

1. Older adults

The risk of nighttime leg cramps tends to increase with age. Changes in muscles, nerves, tendons, and activity levels may all contribute.

2. People who exercise intensely

Hard exercise, prolonged walking, running, or standing can fatigue muscles and make cramping more likely later, including during sleep.

3. People who sit or stand for long periods

Long periods of inactivity or prolonged standing can contribute to leg discomfort and cramping in some people.

4. Pregnant women

Leg cramps, particularly at night, are relatively common during pregnancy. Changes in circulation, increased demands on the body, and pressure from the growing uterus may contribute.

5. People who are dehydrated

Fluid loss from heavy sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, or inadequate fluid intake can increase the likelihood of muscle cramps. However, not every night cramp is caused by dehydration.

6. People taking certain medications

Some medications can be associated with muscle cramps. Examples include certain diuretics (“water pills”) and statins, although the relationship varies and cramps can have many other causes.

Don’t stop a prescribed medication because of cramps without discussing it with your clinician.

7. People with certain medical conditions

Night cramps can occur more frequently in people with conditions affecting nerves, circulation, muscles, or metabolism. Kidney disease, diabetes-related nerve damage, and peripheral artery disease are examples where leg symptoms may occur.