brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Parasomnias
Sleep related leg cramps
 Muscle Cramps often occur in the calf or foot during sleep in otherwise healthy middle-aged and older people. Doctors usually diagnose sleep-related leg cramps based on symptoms after they rule out other physical problems or disabilities. No further testing is needed. To prevent these cramps, people should stretch the affected muscles for several minutes before going to sleep. Usually, stretching as soon as cramps occur relieves symptoms promptly and is preferred to drug treatment. Avoidingcaffeineand other stimulants may help. Many drugs (such asquinine, calcium and magnesium supplements,diphenhydramine, benzodiazepines, andmexiletine) have been used, but none is likely to be effective. Also, side effects, especially withquinineandmexiletine, may be bothersome. 