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There's nothing quite as frustrating as being jolted awake by a sudden, painful muscle cramp in the middle of the night. One minute you're sleeping peacefully, and the next—you're clutching your leg, waiting for the pain to pass.
Night cramps (often called nocturnal leg cramps) are surprisingly common, and while they can happen to anyone, certain people are more likely to experience them than others. Understanding who's at risk—and why—can help you prevent them and finally enjoy uninterrupted sleep.
Let's break it down in a simple, practical way.
First, What Are Night Cramps?
Night cramps are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that occur while you're resting or sleeping. They most commonly affect the:
Calves (most common)
Feet (especially the arches)
Thighs (less common)
A cramp can last anywhere from a few seconds to several agonizing minutes. The muscle may remain sore or tender for hours—or even days—afterward.
Who Is Most at Risk?
1. Older Adults
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