Cramp is typically caused by fatigue or strain, for example when exercising. It's a painful, involuntary muscle contraction, which usually occurs in the legs and feet.
First aid aims
Relieve pain and discomfort
Actions
For cramp in the foot, massage the foot
For cramp in the lower leg, straighten the leg and massage the muscles while pulling the foot upwards towards the shin
For cramp in the upper leg, straighten the casualty's leg and massage the affected muscle until the pain passes
This article was reviewed by the British Red Cross in December 2009.
Disclaimer
All content within BBC Health is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. The BBC is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of the BBC Health website. The BBC is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. See our Links Policy for more
information. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.