Muscle cramps are sudden spasms of the muscles that cause pain. And while they are not usually harmful, they cause an uncomfortable feeling due to the severe contraction of the muscles.

The cramps can last from a few seconds to ten minutes and can affect the calf muscle and the muscles on the feet or the tights (the latter doesn’t happen as often.)

The reasons why cramps happen can be various.

The most common, however, are as follows:

1. Dehydration

Sometimes, leg cramps that happen during the night are caused by the lack of hydration as this condition leads to an electrolyte imbalance.

2. Mineral Deficiencies

Muscle cramps can also happen due to the shortage of certain minerals within the body, such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium.

3. Overexertion

Although exercises is good for the body, overexertion can sometimes overwork the muscles, leading to cramps.

4. Sedentary lifestyle

In order to function properly, muscles need to be stretched from time to time, which is something we often forget about when our job requires too much sitting throughout the day.

5. Improper sitting position

It’s easy for muscles to get strained in case of poor posture and prolonged sitting or standing.