Prevention of leg cramps by using compression stockings or magnesium supplements in the 50-84 age group: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

Background: Leg cramps are painful sensations of tightening in the muscles of the legs that commonly appear during the night and are often associated with secondary insomnia. They are common especially in older age. There is no evidence that any method of prevention of nocturnal leg cramps is both safe and effective.