Yoga For Cramps On Our Feet

by Sheena Arjan
(London)

When we put pressure on the feet and we are doing something active, why do we get a cramp on our feet where we cant move our toe for a while. It is very painful and happens occasionally? Is there any cure for this? Why does it happen? Is there a need for exercise?


Answer

Hello Sheena

Cramps can be due to one or more of the following reasons:

• Nutritional deficiency of essential minerals like potassium, calcium and sodium.


• Deficiency of Vitamin-D.


• Dehydration.


• Over exertion of muscles.


• Prolonged sitting in a position.


• Deprivation of oxygen due to poor blood circulation to the effected muscle, leading to build up of lactic acid in the muscle.

In case of frequent cramps, you can also consult your doctor and if required supplement your sodium, potassium or calcium intake. For example, my son at age of seven years used to have severe cramps in thighs at night. After a series of tests it was at last successfully attributed to low levels of calcium and Vitamin-D.

In case of occassional cramps, keep yourself well hydrated, do regular exercise like cycling, swimming or yoga. Yoga asanas will strengthen the muscles and the connective tissues of your legs and feet. Muscles become more balanced, fit and strong.

Virasana (Hero Pose), Vajrasana (Diamond Pose), Utkatasana (Chair Pose), Padahastasana (Hands to feet pose), Baddha Konasana (Cobbler Pose) yoga poses will increase muscle tone and stretch foot muscles and connective tissue.

Eat plenty of potassium rich foods like bananas,
tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli, oranges. Eat dark green vegetables as they are good sources of calcium. Drink plenty of water.

Exposure to sunlight will provide you the natural source of vitamin-D.

Hope this helps.

Regards
Daljit