Question:

For the past week or so I’ve been experiencing severe leg cramps in my sleep (similar to the ones I had when I was pregnant, 12 years ago) and I was wondering if anyone else has them and if they are related to my back problems.  I have disc problems at L5-S1 causing chronic sciatica. These cramps make me leap out of bed (as best I can) and run to put them on a cold floor, and leave me with very sore muscles the next day.  Any suggestions?  Thanks Laura

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I am not a doctor but I do know that a lack of potasium can cause severe muscle cramps especialy in the legs.  I have experienced this.  It cant hurt to increase the potasium in your diet.  like spinich,  avacatos, bananas, and sports drinks ( there is a bottled juice blend called Juicy juice that is even higher in potasium than sports drinks and tastes better.  There may be more reasons for this problem but it wouldn’t hurt to try this and see if it helps. good luck Nanci

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For the past week or so I’ve been experiencing severe leg cramps in my sleep (similar to the ones I had when I was pregnant, 12 years ago) and I was wondering if anyone else has them and if they are related to my back problems.  I have disc problems at L5-S1 causing chronic sciatica. These cramps make me leap out of bed (as best I can) and run to put them on a cold floor, and leave me with very sore muscles the next day.  Any suggestions?  Thanks Laura

If anyone can shed some light on the cramping problem, *please* post it on the ng — I have been plagued with leg and foot cramps for at least 5 years, and wonder if it related to my back problems which surfaced recently. Thanks, MLBee

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Laura, since my accidental fall in June of last year, I am plaqued by leg cramps just like yours, except I can’t leap out of be because my feet stick straight out, and I can’t get the to the floor flat. I take soma when needed, and usually always before I go to bed to eleiminate those problems. Nanci had a good point also about the potassium. My wife tries to get me to eat bananas also, but i really do not like them all that much. Talk to your doctor about it, and maybe he cam help you with the situation Mark – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -For the past week or so I’ve been experiencing severe leg cramps in my sleep (similar to the ones I had when I was pregnant, 12 years ago) and I was wondering if anyone else has them and if they are related to my back problems.  I have disc problems at L5-S1 causing chronic sciatica. These cramps make me leap out of bed (as best I can) and run to put them on a cold floor, and leave me with very sore muscles the next day.  Any suggestions?  Thanks Laura

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Leg cramps can sometimes be stopped by quinine tables available from your drug store.  1/100,000 have a drop in their platelet count (my wife was one of the unfortunate ones) … watch for brusing or difficulty stopping bleeding.  Stop taking quinine immediately and see your doctor if you symptoms occur.  Some people have reported getting releaf from the calcium formual for TUMS. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For the past week or so I’ve been experiencing severe leg cramps in my sleep (similar to the ones I had when I was pregnant, 12 years ago) and I was wondering if anyone else has them and if they are related to my back problems.  I have disc problems at L5-S1 causing chronic sciatica. These cramps make me leap out of bed (as best I can) and run to put them on a cold floor, and leave me with very sore muscles the next day.  Any suggestions?  Thanks Laura If anyone can shed some light on the cramping problem, *please* post it on the ng — I have been plagued with leg and foot cramps for at least 5 years, and wonder if it related to my back problems which surfaced recently. Thanks, MLBee

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Mark, there is always potassium in vitamin bottles, if you don’t like bananas (there are also other food sources like apricots you can check out).

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Mark, there is always potassium in vitamin bottles, if you don’t like bananas (there are also other food sources like apricots you can check out).

Accutally, I do take vitamins also, as I am not really a fruit lover. The closest I come to fuit is a good baked apple pie he he. Mark

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For the past week or so I’ve been experiencing severe leg cramps in my sleep (similar to the ones I had when I was pregnant, 12 years ago) and I was wondering if anyone else has them and if they are related to my back problems.  I have disc problems at L5-S1 causing chronic sciatica. These cramps make me leap out of bed (as best I can) and run to put them on a cold floor, and leave me with very sore muscles the next day.  Any suggestions?  Thanks Laura

Hi Laura, I have disc problems also and I believe the leg cramps are definitely related. I take 550mg of potassium and 250mg of magnesium daily. I believe the magnesium enables your system to use the potassium. This reduces my cramps a lot. I ran out of the vitamins recently and the cramps returned worst than ever. Four days after I resumed taking the vitamins they eased up. Hope this helps, Carolyn

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Hey, Mark, usually the closest I get to a vegetable is pumpkin pie– I stretch 1 pie crust to 2 and use non fat sweetened condensed milk so it is about 300 calories for 1/6 (with low fat Cool Whip) and gives me more than 100% of my Vitamin A for the day.   I am not making this up–it was published in a magazine. Blondie Lou

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For the past week or so I’ve been experiencing severe leg cramps in my sleep (similar to the ones I had when I was pregnant, 12 years ago) and I was wondering if anyone else has them and if they are related to my back problems.  I have disc problems at L5-S1 causing chronic sciatica. These cramps make me leap out of bed (as best I can) and run to put them on a cold floor, and leave me with very sore muscles the next day.  Any suggestions?  Thanks Laura

Hello Laura I had leg cramps for a long time with My S-1 L-5 and L-5 L-4.The Doctors first tried Quinine and that got Me sick so then they went to a drug called Elivel.It is a drug used for depression.But it stops the nerves from being irritated.That is what the Doctor said to Me. Terry

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My leg cramps were callled Nocturnal Myoclonus and I was prescribed Klonopin for it. May God Bless You and Yours, Michelle

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I,too, have problems at L5-S1 and get leg cramps at night. I first had them several years ago and the doctor prescriber Quinine which the pharmacist told has since been taken off the market). I recentl started getting bad cramping again. I don’t know what to suggest; I haven’t found relief from anything yet. I guess the only relief is knowing you’re not alone. John Hower – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For the past week or so I’ve been experiencing severe leg cramps in my sleep (similar to the ones I had when I was pregnant, 12 years ago) and I was wondering if anyone else has them and if they are related to my back problems.  I have disc problems at L5-S1 causing chronic sciatica. These cramps make me leap out of bed (as best I can) and run to put them on a cold floor, and leave me with very sore muscles the next day.  Any suggestions?  Thanks Laura Hello Laura I had leg cramps for a long time with My S-1 L-5 and L-5 L-4.The Doctors first tried Quinine and that got Me sick so then they went to a drug called Elivel.It is a drug used for depression.But it stops the nerves from being irritated.That is what the Doctor said to Me. Terry

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For mild leg cramps, try drinking a bottle of tonic water. It contains quinine. Terri

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For the past week or so I’ve been experiencing severe leg cramps in my sleep (similar to the ones I had when I was pregnant, 12 years ago) and I was wondering if anyone else has them and if they are related to my back problems.  I have disc problems at L5-S1 causing chronic sciatica. These cramps make me leap out of bed (as best I can) and run to put them on a cold floor, and leave me with very sore muscles the next day.  Any suggestions?  Thanks Laura Hello Laura I had leg cramps for a long time with My S-1 L-5 and L-5 L-4.The Doctors first tried Quinine and that got Me sick so then they went to a drug called Elivel.It is a drug used for depression.But it stops the nerves from being irritated.That is what the Doctor said to Me. Terry

Dear Terry, I experience intense foot cramps, which are related to my back.  I take calcium at night, which helps.  Also, my physicians have prescribed Neurontin for leg pain.  Neurontin helps block neuropathic pain. I hope this may be useful to you.  Good luck……R

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The cause of the cramps needs to be determined- perhaps by a nights stay at the sleep lab at your nearby medical center- may I suggest.  I ended up being diagnosed with Nocturnal Myoclonus- Restless leg syndrome, and the medication Klonopin did the trick at a very low dose.  Good Luck May God Bless You and Yours, Michelle

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My cramps are better now that I am off predizone. But Servent seems to be the cause of mine as well.

     I was getting cramps, sometimes quite painful, in my feet and toes. It seemed to be caused by the Serevent I was taking. Since taking a Magnesium supplement they’ve just about disappeared. If I forget to take the Magnesium the cramps return. Debi

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After drinking it I understand why the English are so stiff

That’s why we invented Gin as well ! Seriously, I was getting the exact type of cramps that the original post described so well. I now drink at least one fairly large (half pint or so) glass of tonic water daily and I’m pretty much cramp free. With me it was starting on Seravent inhaler that seemd to start it all off.   Brian

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: : After drinking it I understand why the English are so stiff : : That’s why we invented Gin as well ! : : Seriously, I was getting the exact type of cramps that the original post : described so well. : I now drink at least one fairly large (half pint or so) glass of tonic water : daily and I’m pretty much cramp free. : : With me it was starting on Seravent inhaler that seemd to start it all off. My cramps are better now that I am off predizone. But Servent seems to be the cause of mine as well. Gin is much worse than tonic. I had a serious drinking problem for several years and I never touched a drop of gin even when I was out of anything else to drink. My brother left a half empty bottle and it set around for 10 years and poured it out when I moved. — Gordon    W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger "You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take."   – Wayne Gretzky

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I have problems with leg cramps. I believe that magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin D and tonic water help. Tonic water is carbonated water with quinine and sugar in it. After drinking it I understand why the English are so stiff:) — Gordon    W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger "You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take."   – Wayne Gretzky

: For what it is worth, my leg cramps disappeared when I stopped using : inhaled steroids. I was plagued with them exactly as you have described. : : : Greetings,        I’m so new to this technology so please bear with : me, as I’m a grandma that is just learning.  I’ve recently been : diagnosed with asthma and I’ve been experiencing leg cramps, too. : They have wakened me in the night, created so much pain that I’ve : almost cried.  The cords on my legs contract and pull my toes and foot : up and I have to manually press down on the foot and/or toes to : relieve the pressure.  This usually continues for several minutes.  I : have found that if I take an aspirin before bedtime this seldom : occurs.  I will be seeing my doctor within a week and I will address : this issue with him. Thank-you for sharing your personal experiences. : This gives me the opportunity to learn and to thank God for my : condition. I’m not suffering as many of you are and I pray that you : will be able to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones and not be in : any severe discomfort.God Bless,JKF :

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Hello Joy You’ve done really well, and welcome to this friendly a.s.a. group.

amazing…Peter goes a whole sentence without saying anything totally nonsensical What I’m going to tell you is not yet conventional medical wisdom, but we’re  working on it

what he’s telling you is an illogical construction based on false premises Muscle cramps are a well known symptom of hyperventilation, and according to Professor Buteyko’s theory on asthma,  it’s chronic hyperventilation that causes asthma too.

actually Peter says this about whatever symptoms a new poster to ASA describes…and according to "Prof" Buteyko chronic hyperventilation causes everything from astham through diabetes pretty much all the way to world poverty pseudoscientific BS snipped Best wishes Peter Kolb Biomedical Engineer

important to note that a biomedical engineer is an engineer not a medic eric "live fast, die only if strictly necessary"

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 For what it is worth, my leg cramps disappeared when I stopped using inhaled steroids. I was plagued with them exactly as you have described. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings,        I’m so new to this technology so please bear with me, as I’m a grandma that is just learning.  I’ve recently been diagnosed with asthma and I’ve been experiencing leg cramps, too. They have wakened me in the night, created so much pain that I’ve almost cried.  The cords on my legs contract and pull my toes and foot up and I have to manually press down on the foot and/or toes to relieve the pressure.  This usually continues for several minutes.  I have found that if I take an aspirin before bedtime this seldom occurs.  I will be seeing my doctor within a week and I will address this issue with him. Thank-you for sharing your personal experiences. This gives me the opportunity to learn and to thank God for my condition. I’m not suffering as many of you are and I pray that you will be able to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones and not be in any severe discomfort.God Bless,JKF

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Aloha Again, Calcium often helps me with my feet cramps. Edmund

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings,         I’m so new to this technology so please bear with me, as I’m a grandma that is just learning.  I’ve recently been diagnosed with asthma and I’ve been experiencing leg cramps, too.  They have wakened me in the night, created so much pain that I’ve almost cried.  The cords on my legs contract and pull my toes and foot up and I have to manually press down on the foot and/or toes to relieve the pressure. This usually continues for several minutes.  I have found that if I take an aspirin before bedtime this seldom occurs.  I will be seeing my doctor within a week and I will address this issue with him. Thank-you for sharing your personal experiences.  This gives me the opportunity to learn and to thank God for my condition. I’m not suffering as many of you are and I pray that you will be able to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones and not be in any severe discomfort.God Bless,JKF

This may be unrelated to your asthma, or may be a side-effect of medications.  Leg cramps and related problems do sometimes develop out of the blue as we age.  Generally they’re more of a nuisance than a serious problem, provided they don’t disrupt your sleep too badly.  But ask your doc if your meds could be causing them. Note that such problems can also be caused or exacerbated by dehydration and low potassium levels.  Assuming you’re not also being treated for heart or kidney problems, increase your fluid intake a bit and get more fresh fruit.  (Or kill two birds with one stone and drink more orange juice.)

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Greetings,         I’m so new to this technology so please bear with me, as I’m a grandma that is just learning.  I’ve recently been diagnosed with asthma and I’ve been experiencing leg cramps, too.  They have wakened me in the night, created so much pain that I’ve almost cried.  The cords on my legs contract and pull my toes and foot up and I have to manually press down on the foot and/or toes to relieve the pressure.  This usually continues for several minutes.  I have found that if I take an aspirin before bedtime this seldom occurs.  I will be seeing my doctor within a week and I will address this issue with him. Thank-you for sharing your personal experiences.  This gives me the opportunity to learn and to thank God for my condition. I’m not suffering as many of you are and I pray that you will be able to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones and not be in any severe discomfort.God Bless,JKF

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       I’m so new to this technology so please bear with me, as I’m a = grandma that is just learning.

Hello Joy You’ve done really well, and welcome to this friendly a.s.a. group. I’ve recently been diagnosed with asthma = and I’ve been experiencing leg cramps, too.  They have wakened me in the = night, created so much pain that I’ve almost cried.  The cords on my = legs contract and pull my toes and foot up and I have to manually press = down on the foot and/or toes to relieve the pressure.  This usually = continues for several minutes.

What I’m going to tell you is not yet conventional medical wisdom, but we’re  working on it Muscle cramps are a well known symptom of hyperventilation, and according to Professor Buteyko’s theory on asthma,  it’s chronic hyperventilation that causes asthma too.   Professor Buteyko also tells us that we are particularly vulnerable  to hyperventilation at night when we are asleep and that this is the reason many people suffer badly from night attacks of asthma.  In fact, chronic hyperventilators tend to have irregular breathing, which manifests itself particularly severely at night with episodes of sleep apnea. Once the problem is recognized there’s quite a lot you can do about it. There are many factors which,according to Professor Buteyko, aggravate hyperventilation.  These are factors such as sleeping in a stuffy room,  eating too much,  high animal protein foods, alcohol, and being dressed too warmly.  This is usually more a problem with children, with well meaning mums over dressing their sniffly youngsters making their sniffles worse. The notion that asthmatics breathe too much defies conventional wisdom which tells us asthmatics can’t get enough air.  The latter is true in severe asthmatics, but the reason they have developed to this stage, according to the hyperventilation theory, is that they have been chronically hyperventilating for a long time and thereby abusing their bodies.   Most doctors are not yet aware of the problems caused by chronic hyperventilation.  I’ve written up a summary for doctors on the condition with emphasis on how it applies to asthma.  You can find it on our web site listed below.  You might like to make a copy and take it with you when you see your doctor.  If he has trouble diagnosing your condition he might well be interested.   Best wishes Peter Kolb Biomedical Engineer Free information provided by grateful ex-asthmatics     http://www.wt.com.au/~pkolb/buteyko.htm

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I was diagnosed with UC in July and have been having cramps in my feet and lower leg lately also. Mostly while sleeping. Mine started after I started taking prednisone. I thought it might me a side effect from that. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Was wondering if my leg cramps are caused by the excessive diarea condition I have.  Anyone experiencing this, please let me know… Thanks..

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Leg cramps have not been much of a problem for me other than occasionally, but  every morning and after long periods of being off my feet I have bad foot  pains, feel all swelled up and really hobble.  SOmetimes I keep a bath towel  at the foot of my bed and before getting up I loop it under the ball of my  foot and push against it.  Do that also with arch.  Feels better, and more  controlled than just hoping up and walking on it.

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Was wondering if my leg cramps are caused by the excessive diarea condition I have.  Anyone experiencing this, please let me know… Thanks.. Mike — Mike Bagley Computerized Matchmaking Online! http://www.calweb.com/~swifty/match.html

Quinine used to be the best traditional cure for leg cramps, but unfortunately some time back the FDA banned it because of research studies that falsely linked it to bubonic plague or something in underdeveloped countries.  Vitamin E often helps relieve pain in cases of "restless legs syndrome" too.

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Check with your doctor about your potassium.  When your having alot of diarreha  your potassium level can drop.  Thats what happened to me when I was having  the leg cramps and diarreha.  Mine had dropped so low that I had to have the  potassium replaced iv.  See what your doctor has to say about it.  Take care,  Diana….

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They probably are. Those cramps could be caused by the dehydration experienced as a result of the diarrhea. I also get them because I’m on a diuretic. I now take an extra potassium supplement on top of my multivitamin. To be safe, check with you doctor to see if it could be anything else that requires attention. — Lyn Wall To reply by e-mail: Remove the "xxx" from the reply address. NOTICE:  The posting of this message in a public  forum does not con- stitute effective consent for any person or  organization to transmit unsolicited  advertising  messages to the email  address given above. Consent for the sending of such messages is hereby explicitly denied. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Was wondering if my leg cramps are caused by the excessive diarea condition I have.  Anyone experiencing this, please let me know… Thanks.. Mike — Mike Bagley Computerized Matchmaking Online! http://www.calweb.com/~swifty/match.html

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Was wondering if my leg cramps are caused by the excessive diarea condition I have.  Anyone experiencing this, please let me know… Thanks.. Mike — Mike Bagley Computerized Matchmaking Online! http://www.calweb.com/~swifty/match.html

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Check with your doctor about your potassium.  When your having alot of diarreha your potassium level can drop.  Thats what happened to me when I was having the leg cramps and diarreha.  Mine had dropped so low that I had to have the potassium replaced iv.  See what your doctor has to say about it.  Take care, Diana….

Severe potassium loss can effect your heart rythmn. This can happen with severe diarrhea. Also prednisone leachs it out.  I have ended up in an emergency room for this! I’d rathr have it iv than those horse pills I choke on or that draino like liquid you swallow. kathi

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writes: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -They probably are. Those cramps could be caused by the dehydration experienced as a result of the diarrhea. I also get them because I’m on a diuretic. I now take an extra potassium supplement on top of my multivitamin. To be safe, check with you doctor to see if it could be anything else that requires attention. — Lyn Wall To reply by e-mail: Remove the "xxx" from the reply address. NOTICE:  The posting of this message in a public  forum does not con- stitute effective consent for any person or  organization to transmit unsolicited  advertising  messages to the email  address given above. Consent for the sending of such messages is hereby explicitly denied. Was wondering if my leg cramps are caused by the excessive diarea condition I have.  Anyone experiencing this, please let me know… Thanks.. Mike — Mike Bagley Computerized Matchmaking Online! http://www.calweb.com/~swifty/match.html

If you can tolerate milk, I hear that helps leg cramps.  It’s worth a try.  Also you should drink a lot of water. Penny

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Anyone have any ideas about what I can do to help remedy these horriffic leg cramps I get at night? This happens every time I’m back on high dose prednisone. I also get them during the day, but there aren’t as severe then. I’m already supplementing my diet with an extra 2gms calcium and magnesium 400mgs, along with a bannana for the potassium.  I’ve tried a mild benzodiazepine( ativan/valium family of drugs) to relax me for sleep, and that doesn’t help much either.  My prednisone was just lowered to 30mgs yesterday. And thanks for the Peeps website info that Constance and Christine sent.  It’s a fun place to visit when I’m up at this ungodly hour. Adrianne

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone have any ideas about what I can do to help remedy these horriffic leg cramps I get at night? This happens every time I’m back on high dose prednisone. I also get them during the day, but there aren’t as severe then. I’m already supplementing my diet with an extra 2gms calcium and magnesium 400mgs, along with a bannana for the potassium.  I’ve tried a mild benzodiazepine( ativan/valium family of drugs) to relax me for sleep, and that doesn’t help much either.  My prednisone was just lowered to 30mgs yesterday. And thanks for the Peeps website info that Constance and Christine sent.  It’s a fun place to visit when I’m up at this ungodly hour. Adrianne

Adrianne, One thing that helped me was taking a teaspoon of one of those Potassium salt substitutes.  Be forewarned that it tastes awful, especially if you take it straight. However, it’s better than the taste of Prednisone! Good Luck, — Jim Batka

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I have RA and often wake up with painful leg cramps, especially on the top part of my foot.  As far as I know, neither my feet nor ankles have been affected by RA.  Could these leg cramps be related to RA? Lois Wilson

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I have RA and often wake up with painful leg cramps, especially on the top part of my foot.  As far as I know, neither my feet nor ankles have been affected by RA.  Could these leg cramps be related to RA? Lois Wilson

Whilst possible that it is related  to the RA – most leg cramps occur for unknown reasons. Some people quote calcium / potassium / magnesium defficiency / fatigue etc.. However  in fact the truth is – noone knows Regards drdoc http://www.aztec.co.za/users/drdoc/

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while sleeping, I get painful camping in my hamstrings, or my calf muscles.  It sometimes happens a few hours

Homoeopathy has various remedies for leg cramps. Cuprum Metallicum is for calf cramps, but the remedy can vary from individual to individual. Verity

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It’s the potassium in the bananas, I think. My mother used to get leg cramps, which were relieved by potassium supplements. Now that I’ve hit middle age, I’m getting them, too, and potassium does the trick for me.

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Chaplin-Langdon) writes: while sleeping, I get painful camping in my hamstrings, or my calf muscles.  It sometimes happens a few hours

I have the same problem – I keep a vial of potassium tablets by my bed and take one every night just before I go to sleep.  It really solves to problem.    For me, there isn’t enough potassium in the bananas.   Potassium and salt need to be in balance.  If you eat too much salt, you need more potassium. Alice

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I get the same thing and bananas seem to help me. Paul Miner – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  Often, in the evening, or worse, in the middle of the night, while sleeping, I get painful camping in my hamstrings, or my calf muscles.  It sometimes happens a few hours after I’ve exersized somewhat, but not usually.   Monday  the cramping was very bad in my calfs, and I’m still limping around with what feels like a badly pulled muscle in my upper calf, back of my thigh.  My friend says that maybe I need more potassium in my diet, since I use too much salt.  I eat one to two banannas per day.  Any suggestions? Thanks, bruce….

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I agree with Paul M., I used to get terrible leg cramps. A banana a day keeps the cramps away….. for me anyway.  :) John

: I get the same thing and bananas seem to help me. : Paul Miner

:  Often, in the evening, or worse, in the middle of the night, : while sleeping, I get painful camping in my hamstrings, : or my calf muscles.  It sometimes happens a few hours : after I’ve exersized somewhat, but not usually.   : Monday  the cramping was very bad in my calfs, : and I’m still limping around with what feels like : a badly pulled muscle in my upper calf, back : of my thigh.  My friend says that maybe I need : more potassium in my diet, since I use too much : salt.  I eat one to two banannas per day. :  Any suggestions? : Thanks, : bruce…. —                              I Need a Signature        

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I don’t know about sea cucumbers but I do know (from experience) that 200mg of a quality magnesium supplement will do the trick, even for those suffering from chronic cramping in major muscle groups, quads especially. Its been my experience and that of some family members that it(200mg) can be taken at the onset of cramping symptoms and within 15 to 20 minutes all symptoms are gone. Given the fact that magnesium is not a current market favourite, it is an excellent inexpensive source of relief.

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: I don’t know about sea cucumbers but I do know (from experience) that : 200mg of a quality magnesium supplement will do the trick, even for those : suffering from chronic cramping in major muscle groups, quads especially. : Its been my experience and that of some family members that : it(200mg) can be taken at the onset of cramping symptoms and within : 15 to 20 minutes all symptoms are gone. Given the fact that magnesium is : not a current market favourite, it is an excellent inexpensive source of : relief. Calcium deficiency is a well known cause of muscle cramps. It can also cause tetany if it becomes bad, (tingling in the hands and feet, etc.) It’s a good idea to take calcium together with magnesium since too much of one can cause a deficiency of the other. Vitamin d is also important for the absorbtion of calcium. Also, if there is an insufficient amount of hydrochloric acid produced in the stomach the calcium won’t be absorbed. This can be a problem if the calcium source is from an antacid like calcium carbonate, (tums or alka seltzer).

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I have had reports of leg cramps being helped accidently by  food supplement of sea cucumber which my company is beginning to market under the name of Ginseng of the Sea.  There is a certain amount of calcium in the formula, but I really can’t say if this is an active ingredient or not.  I am targeting the arthritis syndrome with the thought that the ingredient Chondroitin Sulfate will be of benefit. There are a number of other sea cucumber products on the market right now. Solgar has one, Solaray has a GS Formula with it, Future Biotics has one, I can provide bottles if anyone’s interested, International Health Products has one, Michael’s Naturopathic has one,  Nutraceutical Labs has one called Marine Care, Sea Life has one on the West coast, Health Concerns has one…….Any of the above could be of help.  I’ve had three responses unsolicited concerning leg cramps. If anyone would like to hear more, You could Email me.  Good Health,  Pete Collin

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Calcium is probably the answer. I have had leg and toe cramps for years and everytime I increase the calcium they get better. Just to check, I asked at the Atkins Center last time I was there and the answer I got was CALCIUM. Try it, you’ll like it!!! Janice

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Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them. I just know that it happens when I’m lying down (usually when I’m sleeping, but once I got a really terrible one when I was lying on the couch with my head propped up watching TV).  Any help? I woke up with one 2 nights ago, and deep breathing finally helped. My calf felt sore for most of yesterday and is still a bit sore.  It doesn’t always stay sore, sometimes once the pain is gone, it’s gone. It’s enough to make me yelp and cry. Unfortunately, relaxing is hard when in such pain so the pain and tension is exacerbated  by itself. It takes LOTS of focus to breathe deeply and relax. Unfortunately it was 2:45am so I couldn’t call my mom (I usually call her long distance when I’m in that much pain from a cramp. Her voice is comforting and she usually talks me through the with visualization technique or another alternative. Visualization didn’t help this time, nor did EFT.).  thanks. andrea — Andrea Toole a.k.a. SmileyGrl ICQ #3603900 Mass Comm IV, Carleton University; CUSA PAM Rep ‘98-’99  There is no sig quote at this time. please try again.

Response:

Try taking a calcium/magnesium supplement at night before bed. Also, make sure you are getting enough potassium!

Response:

A useless testimonial.  My cousin Butch suffered this same problem as a youngster.  The Dr’ told my Aunt to gove him a banana each day shortly before bedtime.  It worked.  He told me recently he never had leg cramps again.  Potassium lack?  Probably.  A banana is healthier then popping a pill as it contains other nutrients your body needs. — Carol ….. Taxidermist Window:  We really know our stuff. ~~~ }<(((0 ~~~ }<{{{o ~~~ }<(((0 ~~~ }<{{{o ~~~ }<(((0 : Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of : my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch : it.

Response:

Well, what might help is getting a blood test to check your electrolytes.  There could be some physiologic cause of your cramping as people have suggested. Also, as you have alluded, some people tend to "store stress" in certain muscles or through performing certain behaviors — grinding teeth, tightening neck muscles, incessant leg shaking, and so forth. Alternative relaxation methods might work. Also, you may, pardon the expression, be "Out of Shape".  If you stand a lot or walk a lot at work or during commuting but don’t exercise, you may have some problems with muscle shortening and vascular sufficiency in your calves. What may work initially is a warm to hot bath, and calf muscle stretching exercises prior to going to sleep.  You might also try massaging the muscle belly (even though it may really hurt) and then placing your legs on a pillow (for the elevation which improves circulation).  For the long term, exercise works because it tends to increase blood supply to affected muscles and improve the metabolic "method" and efficiency of muscles. Some people also drink tonic water for the trace quinine which can be useful for muscle relaxation. More serious disorders such as peripheral vascular disease cause leg cramps as a collateral effect — see a G.P. if the regular interventions don’t work?

Response:

Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them.

Have you been tested for anemia? It can often be accompanied by such cramps. Also, (to try to prevent it from happening) try massaging your calves with lavender essential oil diluted in a base oil such as sweet almond oil each night (or as often as you can) after a shower or bath before going to bed. There’s no saying that it will definitely work – but it has for a lot of people. Hope it helps:-) Lynn

Response:

Your spelling is really funny in certain spots, magnetlady — thank you. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – In response to Andrea I to have a right leg that cramps up and can not be strech out. I was bitten by a 350 pound sou(mother pig) who tried to take my leg off. It’s a long storie and one that I can laugh at now. I have found releif from my night cramps with a calcium but not enough and never when it is happing. The calcium just helps them not come as often. I have found the greates relief  when the cramps happening threw the use of magnets. A magnet call the magboy, it is magnets on a roller that you roll over the area and it stops the cramp and releives the pain for me. I just thought I let you know you are not alone and to keep tring till you find what will work for you.I also to not try and strech out while lying in bed this seemes for me  to bring on the cramp. Good luck and let me know if I can help you in anyway. Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them. I just know that it happens when I’m lying down (usually when I’m sleeping, but once I got a really terrible one when I was lying on the couch with my head propped up watching TV).  Any help? I woke up with one 2 nights ago, and deep breathing finally helped. My calf felt sore for most of yesterday and is still a bit sore.  It doesn’t always stay sore, sometimes once the pain is gone, it’s gone. It’s enough to make me yelp and cry. Unfortunately, relaxing is hard when in such pain so the pain and tension is exacerbated  by itself. It takes LOTS of focus to breathe deeply and relax. Unfortunately it was 2:45am so I couldn’t call my mom (I usually call her long distance when I’m in that much pain from a cramp. Her voice is comforting and she usually talks me through the with visualization technique or another alternative. Visualization didn’t help this time, nor did EFT.).  thanks. andrea — Andrea Toole a.k.a. SmileyGrl ICQ #3603900 Mass Comm IV, Carleton University; CUSA PAM Rep ‘98-’99  There is no sig quote at this time. please try again.

Response:

Sometimes if you have your bed linen tucked in too tight at the end of the bed it will cause cramping as it is forces your toes into a pointed position and shortens the calf mms.  This can for many cause cramping especially when you start to walk first thing in the morning. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them. Have you been tested for anemia? It can often be accompanied by such cramps. Also, (to try to prevent it from happening) try massaging your calves with lavender essential oil diluted in a base oil such as sweet almond oil each night (or as often as you can) after a shower or bath before going to bed. There’s no saying that it will definitely work – but it has for a lot of people. Hope it helps:-) Lynn

Response:

In response to Andrea I to have a right leg that cramps up and can not be strech out. I was bitten by a 350 pound sou(mother pig) who tried to take my leg off. It’s a long storie and one that I can laugh at now. I have found releif from my night cramps with a calcium but not enough and never when it is happing. The calcium just helps them not come as often. I have found the greates relief  when the cramps happening threw the use of magnets. A magnet call the magboy, it is magnets on a roller that you roll over the area and it stops the cramp and releives the pain for me. I just thought I let you know you are not alone and to keep tring till you find what will work for you.I also to not try and strech out while lying in bed this seemes for me  to bring on the cramp. Good luck and let me know if I can help you in anyway. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them. I just know that it happens when I’m lying down (usually when I’m sleeping, but once I got a really terrible one when I was lying on the couch with my head propped up watching TV).  Any help? I woke up with one 2 nights ago, and deep breathing finally helped. My calf felt sore for most of yesterday and is still a bit sore.  It doesn’t always stay sore, sometimes once the pain is gone, it’s gone. It’s enough to make me yelp and cry. Unfortunately, relaxing is hard when in such pain so the pain and tension is exacerbated  by itself. It takes LOTS of focus to breathe deeply and relax. Unfortunately it was 2:45am so I couldn’t call my mom (I usually call her long distance when I’m in that much pain from a cramp. Her voice is comforting and she usually talks me through the with visualization technique or another alternative. Visualization didn’t help this time, nor did EFT.).  thanks. andrea — Andrea Toole a.k.a. SmileyGrl ICQ #3603900 Mass Comm IV, Carleton University; CUSA PAM Rep ‘98-’99  There is no sig quote at this time. please try again.

Response:

I have RA and often wake up with painful leg cramps, especially on the top part of my foot.  As far as I know, neither my feet nor ankles have been affected by RA.  Could these leg cramps be related to RA? Lois Wilson

Response:

I have RA and often wake up with painful leg cramps, especially on the top part of my foot.  As far as I know, neither my feet nor ankles have been affected by RA.  Could these leg cramps be related to RA? Lois Wilson

Whilst possible that it is related  to the RA – most leg cramps occur for unknown reasons. Some people quote calcium / potassium / magnesium defficiency / fatigue etc.. However  in fact the truth is – noone knows Regards drdoc http://www.aztec.co.za/users/drdoc/

Response:

while sleeping, I get painful camping in my hamstrings, or my calf muscles.  It sometimes happens a few hours

Homoeopathy has various remedies for leg cramps. Cuprum Metallicum is for calf cramps, but the remedy can vary from individual to individual. Verity

Response:

It’s the potassium in the bananas, I think. My mother used to get leg cramps, which were relieved by potassium supplements. Now that I’ve hit middle age, I’m getting them, too, and potassium does the trick for me.

Response:

Chaplin-Langdon) writes: while sleeping, I get painful camping in my hamstrings, or my calf muscles.  It sometimes happens a few hours

I have the same problem – I keep a vial of potassium tablets by my bed and take one every night just before I go to sleep.  It really solves to problem.    For me, there isn’t enough potassium in the bananas.   Potassium and salt need to be in balance.  If you eat too much salt, you need more potassium. Alice

Response:

I get the same thing and bananas seem to help me. Paul Miner – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  Often, in the evening, or worse, in the middle of the night, while sleeping, I get painful camping in my hamstrings, or my calf muscles.  It sometimes happens a few hours after I’ve exersized somewhat, but not usually.   Monday  the cramping was very bad in my calfs, and I’m still limping around with what feels like a badly pulled muscle in my upper calf, back of my thigh.  My friend says that maybe I need more potassium in my diet, since I use too much salt.  I eat one to two banannas per day.  Any suggestions? Thanks, bruce….

Response:

I agree with Paul M., I used to get terrible leg cramps. A banana a day keeps the cramps away….. for me anyway.  :) John

: I get the same thing and bananas seem to help me. : Paul Miner

:  Often, in the evening, or worse, in the middle of the night, : while sleeping, I get painful camping in my hamstrings, : or my calf muscles.  It sometimes happens a few hours : after I’ve exersized somewhat, but not usually.   : Monday  the cramping was very bad in my calfs, : and I’m still limping around with what feels like : a badly pulled muscle in my upper calf, back : of my thigh.  My friend says that maybe I need : more potassium in my diet, since I use too much : salt.  I eat one to two banannas per day. :  Any suggestions? : Thanks, : bruce…. —                              I Need a Signature        

Response:

I don’t know about sea cucumbers but I do know (from experience) that 200mg of a quality magnesium supplement will do the trick, even for those suffering from chronic cramping in major muscle groups, quads especially. Its been my experience and that of some family members that it(200mg) can be taken at the onset of cramping symptoms and within 15 to 20 minutes all symptoms are gone. Given the fact that magnesium is not a current market favourite, it is an excellent inexpensive source of relief.

Response:

: I don’t know about sea cucumbers but I do know (from experience) that : 200mg of a quality magnesium supplement will do the trick, even for those : suffering from chronic cramping in major muscle groups, quads especially. : Its been my experience and that of some family members that : it(200mg) can be taken at the onset of cramping symptoms and within : 15 to 20 minutes all symptoms are gone. Given the fact that magnesium is : not a current market favourite, it is an excellent inexpensive source of : relief. Calcium deficiency is a well known cause of muscle cramps. It can also cause tetany if it becomes bad, (tingling in the hands and feet, etc.) It’s a good idea to take calcium together with magnesium since too much of one can cause a deficiency of the other. Vitamin d is also important for the absorbtion of calcium. Also, if there is an insufficient amount of hydrochloric acid produced in the stomach the calcium won’t be absorbed. This can be a problem if the calcium source is from an antacid like calcium carbonate, (tums or alka seltzer).

Response:

I have had reports of leg cramps being helped accidently by  food supplement of sea cucumber which my company is beginning to market under the name of Ginseng of the Sea.  There is a certain amount of calcium in the formula, but I really can’t say if this is an active ingredient or not.  I am targeting the arthritis syndrome with the thought that the ingredient Chondroitin Sulfate will be of benefit. There are a number of other sea cucumber products on the market right now. Solgar has one, Solaray has a GS Formula with it, Future Biotics has one, I can provide bottles if anyone’s interested, International Health Products has one, Michael’s Naturopathic has one,  Nutraceutical Labs has one called Marine Care, Sea Life has one on the West coast, Health Concerns has one…….Any of the above could be of help.  I’ve had three responses unsolicited concerning leg cramps. If anyone would like to hear more, You could Email me.  Good Health,  Pete Collin

Response:

Calcium is probably the answer. I have had leg and toe cramps for years and everytime I increase the calcium they get better. Just to check, I asked at the Atkins Center last time I was there and the answer I got was CALCIUM. Try it, you’ll like it!!! Janice

Response:

Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them. I just know that it happens when I’m lying down (usually when I’m sleeping, but once I got a really terrible one when I was lying on the couch with my head propped up watching TV).  Any help? I woke up with one 2 nights ago, and deep breathing finally helped. My calf felt sore for most of yesterday and is still a bit sore.  It doesn’t always stay sore, sometimes once the pain is gone, it’s gone. It’s enough to make me yelp and cry. Unfortunately, relaxing is hard when in such pain so the pain and tension is exacerbated  by itself. It takes LOTS of focus to breathe deeply and relax. Unfortunately it was 2:45am so I couldn’t call my mom (I usually call her long distance when I’m in that much pain from a cramp. Her voice is comforting and she usually talks me through the with visualization technique or another alternative. Visualization didn’t help this time, nor did EFT.).  thanks. andrea — Andrea Toole a.k.a. SmileyGrl ICQ #3603900 Mass Comm IV, Carleton University; CUSA PAM Rep ‘98-’99  There is no sig quote at this time. please try again.

Response:

Try taking a calcium/magnesium supplement at night before bed. Also, make sure you are getting enough potassium!

Response:

A useless testimonial.  My cousin Butch suffered this same problem as a youngster.  The Dr’ told my Aunt to gove him a banana each day shortly before bedtime.  It worked.  He told me recently he never had leg cramps again.  Potassium lack?  Probably.  A banana is healthier then popping a pill as it contains other nutrients your body needs. — Carol ….. Taxidermist Window:  We really know our stuff. ~~~ }<(((0 ~~~ }<{{{o ~~~ }<(((0 ~~~ }<{{{o ~~~ }<(((0 : Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of : my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch : it.

Response:

Well, what might help is getting a blood test to check your electrolytes.  There could be some physiologic cause of your cramping as people have suggested. Also, as you have alluded, some people tend to "store stress" in certain muscles or through performing certain behaviors — grinding teeth, tightening neck muscles, incessant leg shaking, and so forth. Alternative relaxation methods might work. Also, you may, pardon the expression, be "Out of Shape".  If you stand a lot or walk a lot at work or during commuting but don’t exercise, you may have some problems with muscle shortening and vascular sufficiency in your calves. What may work initially is a warm to hot bath, and calf muscle stretching exercises prior to going to sleep.  You might also try massaging the muscle belly (even though it may really hurt) and then placing your legs on a pillow (for the elevation which improves circulation).  For the long term, exercise works because it tends to increase blood supply to affected muscles and improve the metabolic "method" and efficiency of muscles. Some people also drink tonic water for the trace quinine which can be useful for muscle relaxation. More serious disorders such as peripheral vascular disease cause leg cramps as a collateral effect — see a G.P. if the regular interventions don’t work?

Response:

Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them.

Have you been tested for anemia? It can often be accompanied by such cramps. Also, (to try to prevent it from happening) try massaging your calves with lavender essential oil diluted in a base oil such as sweet almond oil each night (or as often as you can) after a shower or bath before going to bed. There’s no saying that it will definitely work – but it has for a lot of people. Hope it helps:-) Lynn

Response:

Your spelling is really funny in certain spots, magnetlady — thank you. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – In response to Andrea I to have a right leg that cramps up and can not be strech out. I was bitten by a 350 pound sou(mother pig) who tried to take my leg off. It’s a long storie and one that I can laugh at now. I have found releif from my night cramps with a calcium but not enough and never when it is happing. The calcium just helps them not come as often. I have found the greates relief  when the cramps happening threw the use of magnets. A magnet call the magboy, it is magnets on a roller that you roll over the area and it stops the cramp and releives the pain for me. I just thought I let you know you are not alone and to keep tring till you find what will work for you.I also to not try and strech out while lying in bed this seemes for me  to bring on the cramp. Good luck and let me know if I can help you in anyway. Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them. I just know that it happens when I’m lying down (usually when I’m sleeping, but once I got a really terrible one when I was lying on the couch with my head propped up watching TV).  Any help? I woke up with one 2 nights ago, and deep breathing finally helped. My calf felt sore for most of yesterday and is still a bit sore.  It doesn’t always stay sore, sometimes once the pain is gone, it’s gone. It’s enough to make me yelp and cry. Unfortunately, relaxing is hard when in such pain so the pain and tension is exacerbated  by itself. It takes LOTS of focus to breathe deeply and relax. Unfortunately it was 2:45am so I couldn’t call my mom (I usually call her long distance when I’m in that much pain from a cramp. Her voice is comforting and she usually talks me through the with visualization technique or another alternative. Visualization didn’t help this time, nor did EFT.).  thanks. andrea — Andrea Toole a.k.a. SmileyGrl ICQ #3603900 Mass Comm IV, Carleton University; CUSA PAM Rep ‘98-’99  There is no sig quote at this time. please try again.

Response:

Sometimes if you have your bed linen tucked in too tight at the end of the bed it will cause cramping as it is forces your toes into a pointed position and shortens the calf mms.  This can for many cause cramping especially when you start to walk first thing in the morning. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them. Have you been tested for anemia? It can often be accompanied by such cramps. Also, (to try to prevent it from happening) try massaging your calves with lavender essential oil diluted in a base oil such as sweet almond oil each night (or as often as you can) after a shower or bath before going to bed. There’s no saying that it will definitely work – but it has for a lot of people. Hope it helps:-) Lynn

Response:

In response to Andrea I to have a right leg that cramps up and can not be strech out. I was bitten by a 350 pound sou(mother pig) who tried to take my leg off. It’s a long storie and one that I can laugh at now. I have found releif from my night cramps with a calcium but not enough and never when it is happing. The calcium just helps them not come as often. I have found the greates relief  when the cramps happening threw the use of magnets. A magnet call the magboy, it is magnets on a roller that you roll over the area and it stops the cramp and releives the pain for me. I just thought I let you know you are not alone and to keep tring till you find what will work for you.I also to not try and strech out while lying in bed this seemes for me  to bring on the cramp. Good luck and let me know if I can help you in anyway. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Once in awhile (which used to be more frequently) I wake up with one of my calves cramped- I can actually feel the tensed muscle when I touch it. The pain is agonizing and debilitating and moving my leg/foot just makes the pain worse and doesn’t relax the muscle like it normally would. I’ve been told to try upping my calcium but it doesn’t help. I have no idea what causes them or how to cure them. I just know that it happens when I’m lying down (usually when I’m sleeping, but once I got a really terrible one when I was lying on the couch with my head propped up watching TV).  Any help? I woke up with one 2 nights ago, and deep breathing finally helped. My calf felt sore for most of yesterday and is still a bit sore.  It doesn’t always stay sore, sometimes once the pain is gone, it’s gone. It’s enough to make me yelp and cry. Unfortunately, relaxing is hard when in such pain so the pain and tension is exacerbated  by itself. It takes LOTS of focus to breathe deeply and relax. Unfortunately it was 2:45am so I couldn’t call my mom (I usually call her long distance when I’m in that much pain from a cramp. Her voice is comforting and she usually talks me through the with visualization technique or another alternative. Visualization didn’t help this time, nor did EFT.).  thanks. andrea — Andrea Toole a.k.a. SmileyGrl ICQ #3603900 Mass Comm IV, Carleton University; CUSA PAM Rep ‘98-’99  There is no sig quote at this time. please try again.

Response:

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