occurs when a muscle contracts involuntarily and temporarily fails to relax.
During an episode, the affected muscle may feel extremely tight or hard. In some people, the muscle visibly bunches or forms a knot beneath the skin.
Nocturnal leg cramps should not be confused with restless legs syndrome (RLS).
Restless legs syndrome generally causes uncomfortable sensations and a strong urge to move the legs, particularly when resting. Movement often temporarily relieves the sensation.
A true muscle cramp, in contrast, involves a painful and forceful muscle contraction.
Nighttime crampsbecome more
common
