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Patient-Reported Leg Cramp Treatments and Their Effectiveness.

Birgit Khandalavala¹, Jenenne Geske², Morgan Karloff²

¹From the Department of Family Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha NE (BK, JG, MK). birgit.khandalavala@unmc.edu.

Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine : JABFM

|March 21, 2025

Summary

Patients with leg cramps use various treatments, with nonpharmacological options often being beneficial and less risky. Many seek relief online, but this may pose risks from unverified information and potential medication adverse events.

Keywords:

Cross-Sectional Studies Family Medicine Family Physician Leg Muscle Cramp Muscle Spasm Patient Reported Outcome Measures Primary Health Care Surveys and Questionnaires Therapeutic Use

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Area of Science:

Medical Research
Patient Care
Health Informatics

Background:

Leg cramps are a common ailment with numerous patient-reported treatments.
Many treatments carry potential adverse effects and are underreported to clinicians.
Patients actively seek external information sources for symptom relief.

Purpose of the Study:

Investigate patient-reported leg cramp treatments and their effectiveness.
Examine the role of the Internet in patients' treatment-seeking behavior.
Assess potential risks associated with common leg cramp treatments.

Main Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was developed and administered.
The study was conducted in primary care clinics in the Midwest.
365 patients experiencing leg cramps were included in the analysis.

Main Results:

Nonpharmacological treatments like massage, stretching, and walking were frequently used.
Over-the-counter analgesics were the most common and helpful pharmacological options.
30.8% of patients searched the Internet for treatments, finding information on hydration, electrolytes, potassium, magnesium, and massage.

Conclusions:

Patients utilize diverse treatments for leg cramps, with nonpharmacological methods offering benefits and lower risk.
A significant proportion of patients may face risks from medication side effects, particularly OTC analgesics.
Internet use for treatment information presents potential risks for nearly one-third of patients.