What Is a Foot Cramp?

Foot cramps are when a muscle in your foot suddenly squeezes and can't relax. They're usually harmless. Often, you can take care of the pain yourself at home. Though you might get a foot cramp because of exercise or other activity, it can just as easily happen when you're sitting still or sleeping.

How do you stop a foot cramp?

Stretch your foot forcefully to relieve the cramp by flexing your foot and pressing down on your big toe. Walking around and jiggling your leg may also help with both foot and leg cramps. Taking a warm bath or shower or using ice may ease any lingering pain. Deep tissue massage may help in the long term.

What does it mean when your feet cramp up?

Your body becomes dehydrated when you're not getting enough water for your organs and tissues to function properly. Because being dehydrated means your muscles aren't getting the water they need, they begin to malfunction, which causes the pain and spasms associated with cramping.