Frequent Leg Cramps and Numbness?

– Balance Your Nerves, Circulation, and Nutrition

by Son’s Rehabilitation Medicine & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

“Isn’t it normal to experience leg cramps or numbness as we age?”
Not necessarily.

Recurring leg cramps and numbness may seem harmless, but they can be signs of deeper issues such as
peripheral nerve dysfunction, poor blood circulation, or electrolyte and nutrient imbalance.
In middle-aged and older adults, these systems often become dysregulated together, making a comprehensive evaluation essential.

✅ Common Underlying Causes

CauseDescription
Peripheral nerve dysfunctionNerve conduction damage due to diabetes, nutrient deficiencies, neuroinflammation, or aging
Spinal issuesNerve compression from lumbar disc herniation or spinal stenosis
Venous insufficiencyPoor return of blood from the legs, leading to heaviness, swelling, and nighttime cramps
Electrolyte imbalanceMagnesium, calcium, or potassium deficiency may trigger muscle cramps
Vitamin deficiencyEspecially B-complex deficiency, leading to numbness, tingling, or burning sensations

🩺 Standard Medical Approaches

  • Neuropathic causes → Neurotrophic medications, nerve block injections, rehabilitation

  • Spinal compression → Physical therapy, manual therapy, postural correction, decompression injections

  • Venous issues → Doppler ultrasound, compression stockings, and conservative pharmacological support

  • Nutritional imbalance → Blood tests, individualized micronutrient supplementation

📌 Common diagnostics include:
Nerve conduction study (NCS), lumbar MRI, vascular ultrasound, blood chemistry tests

🌿 Evidence-Based Nutrients and Supportive Agents

1. 🍃 Ginkgo Biloba Extract

  • Mechanism: Enhances microcirculation, reduces oxidative stress, protects nerves

  • Evidence:

    • Improves peripheral blood flow and reduces symptoms of neuropathy and venous insufficiency

    • Shown to reduce leg heaviness and nighttime cramps in patients with chronic venous insufficiency

  • References:

    • Schulz V. Clin Investig. 1993

    • Pittler MH et al. Am J Med. 2000

2. 🧂 Magnesium Glycinate

  • Mechanism: Modulates NMDA receptors and suppresses nerve-muscle overexcitability

  • Features: High bioavailability, gentle on digestion – ideal for older adults

  • Evidence:

    • Proven to reduce nocturnal leg cramps and aid recovery after muscle fatigue

  • References:

    • Roguin-Maor N et al. BMJ Open. 2017

    • Barbagallo M, Dominguez LJ. Curr Pharm Des. 2010

3. 🌿 Flavonoid Complex (Diosmin, Hesperidin)

  • Mechanism: Increases venous tone, reduces capillary permeability, improves lymphatic drainage

  • Clinical Use: Chronic venous insufficiency, leg heaviness, fatigue, nighttime cramping

  • Evidence:

    • Long-term use improves venous return and reduces vascular symptoms

  • References:

    • Andreozzi GM et al. Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2015

    • Ramelet AA. Angiology. 2001

🧠 Summary: Symptoms and Nutritional Support

SymptomHelpful Agents
Nighttime leg crampsMagnesium glycinate
Poor leg circulation, heavinessGinkgo extract, flavonoid complex
Tingling, burning, or numbnessVitamin B-complex, alpha-lipoic acid, omega-3
Diabetic neuropathyMethylcobalamin, alpha-lipoic acid, ginkgo extract

🔍 Our Integrative Approach

At Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic, we believe in a multi-dimensional approach to leg cramps and numbness. These symptoms are often the result of overlapping problems involving the nervous system, vascular system, musculoskeletal alignment, and nutrition.

Our comprehensive evaluation includes:

✅ Peripheral nerve function testing (e.g., NCS, EMG)
✅ Spinal and vascular imaging (e.g., lumbar MRI, Doppler ultrasound)
✅ Functional nutritional assessments
✅ Rehabilitation programs to restore balance, mobility, and comfort

When appropriate, we also guide patients on clinically-supported micronutrients and circulatory enhancers as part of their care plan.

💬 Final Thoughts

If you frequently experience tingling, numbness, or cramps in your legs, don’t just assume it’s part of aging.
These symptoms may reflect deeper imbalances in your nerves, vessels, and nutrients.
With timely assessment and an integrated care plan,
you can restore your comfort, regain mobility, and improve your quality of life.

Your body is speaking – it’s time to listen.
At Son Rehabilitation Medicine & Chiropractic Clinic, we’re here to help you walk freely again.

👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

chson@daum.net



 

댓글

댓글 쓰기

이 블로그의 인기 게시물

 What is Central Sensitization? by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul Central sensitization refers to a condition where the brain and spinal cord become abnormally sensitive to pain signals following an injury or inflammation. In simpler terms, the pathways that perceive pain become overly reactive, causing individuals to experience excessive pain from minor stimuli or persistent pain even after healing . Key Features of Central Sensitization Amplified pain responses (Allodynia) Pain is felt even with non-painful stimuli, such as light touch or gentle movement. Increased pain sensitivity (Hyperalgesia) Painful stimuli feel much more intense than usual. Persistent pain Pain can continue even after the original injury or inflammation has resolved. How Central Sensitization Develops Peripheral nerve injury or inflammation → Continuous transmission of pain signals to the spinal cord and brain → Hyperexcitab...
자세한 내용 보기
Why Is My Knee Swollen, and Why Does It Take So Long to Heal? by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul – Understanding Knee Swelling and Recovery Strategies Many people have experienced knee swelling and discomfort at some point. At first glance, it may seem like a minor issue, but in reality, it often takes longer than expected to heal. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of knee swelling , why recovery tends to take time , and what treatment options may help . 1. What Causes Knee Swelling? Knee swelling is not a diagnosis itself—it’s a symptom with a variety of possible causes. Here are some of the most common: ✅ ① Trauma or Overuse Injuries from sports or prolonged walking can lead to inflammation in the knee joint, resulting in swelling. ✅ ② Meniscus or Ligament Injury Damage to structures like the meniscus or cruciate ligaments may cause internal bleeding or increased joint fluid, leading to visible swelling. ✅ ③...
자세한 내용 보기
A Case of Hand Numbness Improved through Upper Cervical and Integrative Treatment by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul  A patient recently visited our clinic complaining of persistent numbness in both hands. This individual had worked in a physically demanding job for many years, frequently using their hands and arms in repetitive tasks. Despite receiving various treatments at multiple clinics, the symptoms either temporarily improved or continued to recur. Referred by an acquaintance, the patient underwent a comprehensive evaluation at our clinic, including a detailed consultation, postural assessment, and upper cervical spine (C1 and C2) functional testing. It was found that subtle misalignments in the upper cervical spine were likely contributing to ongoing nerve irritation, muscular tension, and postural imbalance — all of which could aggravate hand numbness. Our treatment approach combined gentle upper cervical chiropractic ...
자세한 내용 보기