Don’t let pains in the night cramp your style

For an estimated 13 million British adults, nocturnal (night time) muscle cramps are an on-going problem, causing discomfort, pain, distress and sleep deprivation. Some sufferers experience one or two episodes nightly, several times a week.

Crampex is the only product available on general sale to help prevent and treat painful nocturnal cramps.

Nocturnal cramps commonly affect the calf and foot muscles, and occur when the muscles rapidly contract in a vigorous and sustained manner, commonly referred to as a muscle spasm. Episodes of cramp can last from a couple of seconds up to 10 minutes, with residual pain lasting for up to 24 hours.

Local massage, heat or gentle movement of the affected limb can help to treat and temporarily relieve the pain, but these do not prevent cramps from occurring in the first place or to avoid sleep disruption. Crampex tablets taken before going to bed can help to both treat and actually prevent nocturnal leg cramp.

While the cause of nocturnal muscle spasms is unknown, common triggers include dehydration, poor circulation, tiredness, muscle tightness, poor posture, certain medications and calcium deficiency. They can also be triggered by turning or stretching movements during sleep.

Almost everybody will experience a muscle cramp at some point, either from exercise or seemingly simple movements. However, those most at risk of having them include people over the age of 50, those who are overweight, those who overexert themselves during exercise, or those who are on certain medications.

Unique triple-action Crampex contains calcium gluconate to help correct any calcium deficiency, cholecalciferol to aid calcium absorption and nicotinic acid to improve poor peripheral circulation.

Sleep expert, Dr Neil Stanley said: “A disturbed night’s sleep can lead to emotional and physical health problems, and can leave people unable to concentrate at work and even affect relationships with loved ones. The frustration and anxiety lack of sleep, or disturbed sleep, leads to can cause it to become even worse.

“People often aren’t aware that they could be suffering from a sleep condition that is easy to treat. Instead of worrying about the problem, it is important to trust your body’s ability to sleep, making lifestyle changes or taking treatments where appropriate.”

Available in the pain relief aisles of Boots, Tesco and independent pharmacies nationwide, Crampex tablets help to both treat and prevent muscle cramp at night. Crampex is available in a packs of 12 tablets priced at £2.99. Crampex is also available in larger pack sizes from pharmacies nationwide. Always read the label before use.