Tension in the legs

Dear Ask The Doctor: When I become stressed or am feeling uncomfortable about a situation my legs tighten up and i am hardly able to move or walk is this just in my head and it is very embarassing especially when i am at child's bb game and sitting in the bleachers and unable to go up or down the bleachers

Dear Mia: I suggest that you try relaxation techniques as yoga, tai-chi and a healthy exercise routine for example walking at your own pace 30 minutes 3 times a week, and if still the tension persists,and as you described it looks like Cramps, muscle cramps are extremely common, and nearly everyone experiences a cramp at some time in their life. Cramps are common in adults and become increasingly frequent with aging. Any of the muscles that are under our voluntary control (skeletal muscles) can cramp. Cramps of the extremities, especially the legs and feet, and most particularly the calf (the classic charley horse), are very common. Muscle cramps are felt to be caused by excessively excited nerves that stimulate the muscles. This can occur particularly after injury to nerve and/or muscle; dehydration with low blood levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium; from certain medications; and even at rest. Muscle cramps usually cause a temporary nuisance and typically resolve on their own without treatment. When muscle cramps continually recur, it is time to seek an evaluation by a physician.