Managing nocturnal leg cramps--calf-stretching exercises and cessation of quinine treatment: a factorial randomised controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Quinine is a common treatment for nocturnal leg cramps but has potential side effects. An uncontrolled study suggested that calf-stretching exercises could prevent nocturnal leg cramps (night cramps) but these findings have never been confirmed.

Aim

To assess the effect of calf-stretching exercises and cessation of quinine treatment for patients with night cramps taking quinine.

Design of study

Randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Twenty-eight general practices in southern England.

Method

One hundred and ninety-one patients prescribed quinine for night cramps were randomised to one of four groups defined by two "advice" factors: undertake exercises and stop quinine. After 6 weeks they were advised that they could take quinine and undertake the

SUBMITTER: Coppin RJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1463088 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature