Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 6, 2026

Targeted Muscle Reinnervation: Surgical Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial in Postamputation Pain
Published on: March 8, 2024
Nocturnal leg cramps. Clinically mysterious and painful--but manageable
1Department of Family Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
Abstract:
Nocturnal leg cramps are common occurrences among older, generally healthy adults. Although there are many known causes--endocrinologic, neurologic, and vascular disorders, treatment with certain drugs, and occupational factors--a significant portion of cases are idiopathic. History, physical exam, and laboratory testing can provide clues for distinguishing between cramps with identifiable causes and idiopathic cases. For nonidiopathic cases, management consists of treating the underlying cause whenever possible. A nonpharmacologic approach (massaging and stretching) is the recommended first-line treatment for idiopathic cases. Quinine sulfate also appears to offer safe and effective symptom management of idiopathic cases, although its efficacy has not been definitively established in clinical trials.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Restless Leg Syndrome and Night Terrors
The exact cause of RLS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate muscle movement. Imbalances in dopamine levels...
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Narcolepsy
Nightmares and Night Terrors
Nightmares often...
Skeletal Muscle Relaxants: Therapeutic Uses

