Pathogenesis
- various theories have been proposed for the pathogenesis of leg cramps
- proposed that muscle cramps occur as a result of stimulation of the reflex arc and possibly through hyperextension of the motor neurones in any leg nerve or in the spinal cord
- has also been suggested that leg cramps occur when a maximally contracted muscle is stimulated, thus shortening the muscle beyond physiological tolerance
- visible fasciculations may precede and follow the cramp
- this feature indicates excessive excitability of the terminal branches of motor neurones supplying the muscle
- painful cramps
- suggested that are painful because the demands of the overactive muscle exceed metabolic supply
- results in a relative ischaemia and accumulation of metabolites
- suggested that are painful because the demands of the overactive muscle exceed metabolic supply
Reference:
- 1) Salih A. Leg cramps: the underlying causes and available treatment. Prescriber 2007;18(17):31-33
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