Why does my leg seize up?

This happens occasionally, usually at night before falling asleep, my leg will seize up. Both my calf and hamstring become sold as a rock and my tendons behind my knee are pulled so tight it feels like they're going to snap. It usually lasts about a minute or two but the last time it lasted for almost 10 minutes. I've tried googling this and found nothing as far as other people experiencing the same problem. Has anyone ever experienced this or know what causes it?

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JohnRing · 56-60, M

Leg cramps are common. The easiest solution is making sure you're hydrated before bed and throughout the day. Potassium has been known to help (bananas and potatoes have potassium). Also, Tonic Water has Quinine, which has been known to help.

MaryJanine · 70-79, F

I thought I was the only one! Sometimes my leg will do the same thing and I will wake up out of a sound sleep with the feeling you describe.

Seriously...you may have arthritis. The best thing to do is treat it with a topical cream before you go to bed. like Vicks VapoRub, Icy Hot, Absorbine Jr., Cortisone-10, or Joint-Flex (my favorite). Rub one of these in the area of your leg before you hit the sheets, and be faithful about it every night. Also, take a very warm bath (not shower) before applying anything. The warmth of the bath water will help to loosen the tightening muscles in your leg.

This is what I do. It works for me, and I hope it does for you.

Picklebobble2 · 56-60, M

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-causes-leg-cramps/

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Supesun · 56-60, M

Drink more water

kukus1 · 36-40, M

Lack of Magnesium and potassium? Drink some magnesium-potasium supplements

NattyBatty · F

That happens to me often and it hurts like a bitch. I've heard it's from lack of water causing cramping. Whenever I dont drink water this sometimes happens to me. Maybe drink more water? It can be something else though, so you might want to ask a professional if possible.

Onfire22 · 41-45, M

@NattyBatty this seems to make the most sense along with @waleskinder comment about electrolyte imbalance I was working in 85° high humidity on a roof prior to this last occurrence. But I was drinking water constantly.

VeronicaPrincess · 61-69

Maybe your sciatic nerve is getting pinched?

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Onfire22 · 41-45, M

@Pianist1234 only slightly I'm 5'9" and about 195-200 lbs "dad bod" I guess.

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