Some symptoms become so normal for us, that we begin to think they are a part of our new normal. Whether we attribute it to being active or inactive or aging or our nutrition, we can all be guilty of dismissing the cues our body is giving us that something is amiss. Leg cramps are a classic symptom that many of us are prone to dismiss without investigating further or getting medical attention.
What causes leg cramps?
Leg cramps may be caused by a variety of issues with your health. The causes may consist of, but are not limited to:
- Venous Disease/Varicose Veins
- Mineral deficiencies and imbalances
- Medication side effects
- Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease that cause the misfiring of nerves
- Flat arches or other common foot problems
- Reduced blood flow to muscles
Leg cramps: Simply annoying or a serious issue?
Chronic venous insufficiency can lead to numerous symptoms, including leg cramps. Leg cramps may simply be an annoying inconvenience, or they may be a sign of a serious medical issue. Dr. Gardner can perform a physical examination to determine if your leg cramps are due to venous insufficiency or are from other causes. In conjunction with your medical history and family history, he can then determine if further examination or testing are necessary. Testing is non-invasive and completely painless.
Painless ultrasound testing
Ultrasound testing is painless and provides a quick medical diagnosis to determine if your leg cramps are from vein issues. The ultrasound technician will first find and test the great saphenous vein, the large vein that runs from the ankle to the groin. Then the technician will find and test the small, or lesser, saphenous vein which runs along the back of the leg. Depending on the results of this part of the test, you will receive a full venous exam which typically takes around thirty minutes or you will receive a vein screening which typically only takes about ten minutes. Then Dr. Gardner will be able to determine if your leg cramps are due to vein issues and recommend the best treatment options for your optimal vein health.
Watch an ultrasound here
Sometimes walking into an unknown scenario can be intimidating. To help you feel completely comfortable, we have created this one minute video to show you what it is like to experience a typical ultrasound test.
Let us help!
If you are near or able to travel to the Chattanooga area, we would be honored to give you a free consultation. Schedule yours today. Don’t let your sleep at night be disturbed by annoying and painful leg cramps any longer!