Nighttime leg cramps, oftentimes referred to as nocturnal leg cramps (NLC) in the medical world, are a common issue for patients presenting to our office. These leg cramps can be quite painful, waking a person up from a relaxing sleep or making it difficult to fall asleep in the wake of a painful cramp.
As an orthopedic surgeon, we are first taught to identify the cause of the issue. We start by working to eliminate any mechanical causes, like damage with nearby nerves, soft tissues or joints. If there is no obvious mechanical cause, we have to look elsewhere, because of piece of the puzzle is still missing. In many instances, there is a vitamin deficiency at play, and a new study published on JAMA Internal Medicine found that Vitamin K may be the key.
Vitamin K Study For Nocturnal Leg Cramps
The double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved participants over the age of 65 with two or more documented episodes of NLCs during two weeks of screening. Of the 199 enrolled individuals, 108 were female and the mean age was 72.3 years. 103 participants were placed in the Vitamin K2 group and 96 were placed in the placebo group. Participants were either given Vitamin K2 or a placebo for a period of eight weeks.
After analyzing results during and after the study, researchers found that participants in the Vitamin K2 group saw a significant reduction in the frequency of weekly leg cramps, while those in the placebo group experienced cramps at a similar pre-trial frequency. Moreover, those in the Vitamin K2 group saw a significant decrease in the intensity and duration of NLCs. Importantly, no adverse events related to Vitamin K2 use were identified during the study. Researchers concluded that Vitamin K2 supplementation could help to reduce frequency, intensity and duration of nighttime leg cramps in an older population with good safety.
This study brings a deeper level of understanding of the complex function of Vitamin K2, and it could offer a simpler solution to patients who are battling nocturnal leg cramps. A healthy vitamin intake is essential for a number of bodily functions, and that certainly includes muscle function. Really take a closer stock of your vitamin intake, and work to make improvements with your diet and through supplementation if diet alone isn’t enough.
For more information about developing a diet that ensures you have access to a well-balanced nutrient portfolio, reach out to Dr. Silverman and his team today.
