Muscle cramps/Charlie Horse? | Arthritis Information

 

The last week or so I've been having some problems with some strange stuff. I'm going to have trouble describing it but it's simular to muscle cramps/charlie horses I use to have oftten in my calfs. THe other night I got it in three toes all at the same time and my toes were night stuck in this cramped position. It seemed like it lasted forever but I'm sure it was less than a minute. Last night I got the same sort of thing in my ankle that it was EXTREMELY painful. My ankle was all twisted to the side and stuck in this horrible cramp type thing; again....it felt like forever while it was happening; but I'm sure it was less than a minute and it was gone. It left me pretty sore; but that's all.

Try eating some bananas--your potassium might be low.  You could also try a supplement.  I was having a similar problem and this has helped me.  Also be sure you are drinking enough water.  Hi Lovie, I'm glad you posted about this because I thought I was the only one who got a charlie-horse type pain in my ankle.  I talked to my RD about it and he suggested all the usual treatments and no matter what I try every so often the ankle pain hits out of nowhere.  Now when it happens I get out of bed, stand on my foot and then take a pain pill and a muscle relaxant, but then that's after the fact.  Maybe try taking a muscle relaxant before bed for awhile and see if it works.  I can go months between spasms and still don't know what causes them.  Take care.  LindyI don't know , but good luck.Lovie, I have had that very thing happen, started in Dec.  Sometimes it is in my toes, once in my ankles, 4-5 times in my left hand (that one was weird, took my hand and pulled all my fingers way to the left!)  I drink pickle juice and that seems to help in about 20 min. or so.  I probably don't need that added salt though!   Pickle juice, which kind and how much and why?  I'll try anything if it's safe.  Lindy join the club. Lindy, I don't even remember where I heard that its been so long!  If I remember right, it has to do with the vinegar (high in potassium) in the pickle juice.  It really doesn't matter which kind, though I like the kosher or polish, and as far as amount, I would say between 1/4 and 1/2 cup... 3 or 4 good swallows (not very scientific ).  I will see what I can find out for you. Thanks Waddie.  Probably potassium but you know I think I'll stick with potassium pills.  Half a cup of pickle juice at 3 a.m. isn't a pleasant thought.