Week 33 β’ Third Trimester
Leg Cramps (Charley Horses) at Week 33
Painful muscle spasms in calves, often at night
π Third Trimester Overview
Very common - 50% experience nighttime cramps
π What Causes Leg Cramps (Charley Horses) at Week 33?
- β’Extra weight on leg muscles
- β’Uterusεpressing blood vessels
- β’Calcium or magnesium imbalance
- β’Dehydration
- β’Fatigue from carrying weight
- β’Poor circulation
- β’Reduced physical activity
β Normal Signs
- βSudden calf cramp
- βOccurs at night
- βBoth legs affected occasionally
- βReleases with stretching
β Concerning Signs
- β Constant pain in one leg
- β Leg swelling with pain
- β Redness and warmth
- β Pain not releasing
π Relief Strategies
- βStretch calf: straighten leg, flex foot toward shin
- βStand and walk when cramp occurs
- βMassage cramping muscle
- βApply heat after cramp
- βStretch calves before bed
- βStay hydrated
- βIncrease calcium and magnesium foods
- βWear compression socks
- βElevate legs when resting
π₯ When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- β Persistent calf pain
- β One leg swollen, red, warm
- β Pain with shortness of breath
- β Cramps extremely frequent
- β Pain not relieving with stretching