MD Podiatrist Discusses Common Causes of Foot Cramps

“Pain is the body’s best sign that something is going awry,” says Dan Michaels, DPM. In most cases, there are easily fixable reasons behind your cramping feet. It commonly means that you’re low on potassium and other electrolytes. Electrolytes are essential minerals, such as sodium, magnesium, and potassium, that you get from the foods you eat and liquids you drink. “These molecules have electrical charges, and they help the body send important messages to the muscles,” explains Dr. Michaels.
 
Dr. Michaels adds that recurring cramps can sometimes be a sign of circulation issues, but there would usually be other signs along with the toe cramps, including cramps in your calves and upper legs. In some cases, cramps could be a sign of neuropathy or peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which is usually related to diabetes or stroke, he says.