Sleep-related leg cramps

**Definition:** Sleep related leg cramps are painful sensations in the leg or foot associated with sudden, involuntary muscle hardness or tightness, indicating a strong muscle contraction. They typically last from a few seconds to several minutes. The symptoms are sufficiently severe to result in significant distress or impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational or other important areas of functioning (e.g., due to frequent disruptions in sleep).