exercise to relieve leg cramps
 

I’m a 67 year old male diagnosed with MG about a year ago. My symptoms are in my eyes and throat (blurred vision, no double vision, and problems swallowing speaking etc). I’m being treated with 240 mg of mestinon a day and although not perfect, able to function. Not sure if it’s since the cold weather started here in New Jersey, or something else but lately I have had severe muscle cramps in my legs and feet mostly during the night but also sitting… was wondering if there are any exercises or other things I can do to fix this.
Chris

I have no idea what may be causing the cramping - - but if this were happening to me, I would start by eating a banana before bedtime to see if it helps at all.

Bananas are known for having a healthy does of potassium - - and sometimes charlie horses are caused by an electrolyte imbalance.

As far as cramping and MG - - perhaps someone else can shed some light on this . I have never experienced cramping - either from MG or mestinon.

Sue

Chris,

Have you mentioned this to your PCP or neuro? The muscle cramps can be from several things... an electrolyte imbalance is just one, bananas are great for a low potassium level. How is your B12 level? Sometimes when it's low it can cause muscle and nerve issues. Are you taking medication for anything else, perhaps that may be a contributing factor.

I'm sure there is someone on the board who may be able offer other advice.

Rachel

Ditto on what the others have said. Also, it might be worth taking a multivitamin. Are you getting enough calcium? I know I can get cramps when I'm not getting enough calcium.

I hope you get things figured out soon. I've had those cramps in the past and I know how awful they are!

Another thing that contributes to leg cramps is dehydration - Are you getting enough water to drink? When I have a cramp (usually at night), I eat and banana and drink at least 16 oz of water - the combination works for me.

Have a great day!

Chris, Leg cramps can be simple, like these guys suggest, such as dehydration causing electrolyte imbalance. They can, however, be more complex involving endocrine disorders that cause electrolyte imbalances, hypoxemia (not enough oxygen), circulatory or heart disorders, etc. The best thing to do is to be evaluated by your primary doctor first. Sitting can shut off circulation to the legs, so I have to wonder if it's mechanical.

A banana or a few potato chips (potassium and sodium work synergistically together) won't hurt. But you need to know WHY you are having cramps in your legs. Blood clots are perhaps the most dangerous reason and some people with autoimmune diseases also have clotting disorders.

Exercising or stretching is all well and good but if there is something other than weak muscles causing cramping, it will only give you temporary relief. Slowly stretch out the muscle (i.e., bring your foot up if it is the calf muscle) and gently massage the area. You can try a heating pad to loosen them up (not too hot!). Or soaking your legs in warm water - though warm to hot water is not good for circulation issues. Again, this is not a simple yes or no question.

I hope you will seek out help from your doctor.

Annie