Cramping muscles will quickly respond to Topical magnesium.
Many of us including myself use Morton Epsom lotion for fast relief from muscle tightness, cramping etc. The magnesium also blocks the NMDA pain receptors, and improves circulation.

Apply to the lower shins and ankles for foot cramping and forearms for hand problems.
A little dollop goes a long way. And it is not expensive.
Available at WalMart, some Walgreen's and online at Amazon.
Not everywhere yet, as it is relatively new.

http://www.amazon.com/Morton-Epsom-L...n+epsom+lotion

I use mine everyday. About a quarter's diameter once a day ..you can move the site of application, as it works for more than one day at each site.

Dark chocolate is the ONLY way to go! haha The darker the better. I eat chocolate daily. I have cut a lot of sugars and additional processed stuff from my diet so chocolate is my go to for something in the sweets department. Most of the time milk chocolates and such contribute to my migraines. hahaha I always hope chocolate is the solution to any issue... It usually isn't but I can always hope!

MrsD. I am going to look into that lotion. Even if it helps a little that would be great. A little relief can make the difference between tolerable and debilitating.

Annie. You are amazing. Seriously! You always have so much information. I read you have been living with this for quite some time and have amassed a wealth of information. I am so glad there are people like you available for those of us still figuring this out.

As I lower the Prednisone dosage I have noticed I am wearing out faster and having more difficulty breathing. I do think I may have to go slower with the Prednisone. UGH! I want off this soooo much! I am holding water from Prednisone... quite a bit.

I already have a Vitamin D deficiency so I very well could have additional vitamin issues. I think I have just been in denial that I need to go to the doctor again. *sigh*

Your recent insert mirrors my situation. At present on 20mg every other day. This sickness has become a tremendous challenge to me. Stay positive no matter what!!! It's 5 months now that I've been coming off Predisone.

Over on the peripheral neuropathy forum I believe it was MrsD who suggested putting a bar of Ivory soap under the bottom sheet at the foot of the bed to relieve foot cramps. My husband and I both get them, and I believe it has cut down on the frequency of our "attacks." (I might have read this in the Peoples Pharmacy column too.)