Legs cramp while playing b-ball?

Question

I need some help, for the last two years everytime I play basketball after about 2 games, my calfs begin to cramp up, everytime. I always stretch before playing and warm up, but after a while of playing, my lower legs get tight and I end up sitting out the rest of the game. Do I need to build up the muscles in my legs?

Can anyone tell what I can do to get rid of this cramping? What can I do to prevent this....?

Also my toes curl up and this becomes very painful!!

Answer 1

you need to stay hydrated, and need more potassium, eat more bananas.

also i'm just throwing this out there.. if you are taking ephedra or any other energy/weight loss pill, that will give you pretty bad leg cramps often, which will go away if you stop.

Answer 2

There are a variety of leg and hamstring stretches that will help, before and after you play. But some muscle cramping is caused by vitamin deficiency. You may want to up your potassium before you play. Bananas are a good source or a multivitamin. Maintaining a good electolyte balance may help by hydrating with a sports drink.

Answer 3

Overexertion, muscle fatigue and excess sweating or dehydration which deplete sodium and potassium causes cramping...stretching, drinking plenty of water, eating fruits and vegetables and wearing comfortable shoes with good arch support will help to prevent cramps.

Answer 4

Make sure you stay hydrated, you could be deficient in potassium. Maybe have a banana before your first game or between if eating doesnt bother you between games. you could maybe add a bit of cardio on non-game days.

Answer 5

try drinking Gatorade before, during, and after your games.