If you’ve ever had a leg cramp, you know just how painful it can be. Sure, the pain doesn’t typically last very long, but while it does you’ll find yourself searching for fast and effective relief.

Fortunately, there are several ways to stop leg cramps before they start. With the right approach, you may never again have to deal with pain and discomfort caused by this ailment.

Here are three things you should be doing:

·      Stay hydrated: You’re more likely to suffer from leg cramps – as well as those in other parts of your body – when you’re dehydrated. Make sure you’re drinking enough water, even if you don’t plan on exercising.

·      Change your diet: More specifically, eat foods that are high in calcium, magnesium, and vitamins. This can go a long way in helping you proactively prevent leg cramps.

·      Stretch before and after exercise: Yes, it takes a few minutes to get in a good stretch, but it’s one of the best ways to prevent cramps.

As you can see, there are easy things you can do to stop leg cramps before they start. If you implement these three techniques in your daily life, you won’t find yourself dealing with leg cramps nearly as often (if at all).

Jennifer Ferdinand, owner of Serendipity Wellness Studio in Burke, VA, has been practicing massage therapy and esthetics since 2006. She is nationally certified through NCBTMB, and licensed in Virginia for both Massage Therapy and Esthetics.