10 Causes of Calf Cramps
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Cause #7: Motor Neuron Disease
Motor neuron disease refers to a group of conditions that affect motor neurons, which are cells that control the voluntary muscles in the body. Some examples of conditions in this group are amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease), monomelic amyotrophy, pseudobulbar palsy, and progressive bulbar palsy.
Motor neuron disease can affect adults or children. Although primarily causing movement-related issues, the main symptom often seen is muscle weakness. Symptoms usually begin and progress gradually with muscle weakness, muscle spasms, cramps, difficulty breathing, respiratory difficulty, dysarthria, and dysphagia. Calf or leg cramps occur when the disease affects nerves supplying the leg muscles.
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