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Neuropathy and leg cramps

Neuropathy | Last Active: 12 hours ago | Replies (55)

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@jwelker
This is for nocturnal leg cramps which I have suffered from off and on for years. (I’m 68.) I would have them for many nights then they would stop for a few nights and I could never figure out what changed. Last December I committed to a list of things to do every day. Of those things, these are the ones that appear to have the greatest effect:
*Taking 600 mg of R-ALA in the morning and 300 at night (this also helps with the burning in my feet from neuropathy). If you don’t already take this, I suggest trying other things first, before trying this. Other people have had success with CoQ10 as well.
*Wearing compression socks (the lightest ones) as many hours of the day as I can)
*Movement of any kind every hour (i.e., don’t sit around all day)
*Make sure you’re getting your electrolytes and hydration (I use SALTT powder on days when I’m working out or doing more physical stuff than normal, which is most days)
*Magnesium Glycinate at bedtime; I take (2) 120 mg capsules. This is about 60% of the RDA. Some people take more. I also use magnesium oil spray both morning and night and midday if I remember. I rub it in well.

I’m pretty sure that one of the contributors to my leg cramps (mainly shins and calves) is poor circulation. So I raise the end of my bed by a few inches (I’m fortunate to have an adjustable bed- best purchase I’ve ever made!) You can use pillows under the mattress also.
I now go to bed anticipating getting a good night’s sleep. It doesn’t always happen, but the cramps I do get from time to time I do not have to jump out of bed for!! 🙂
I pray you find what works for you. I feel your pain and frustration!

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Replies to "@jwelker This is for nocturnal leg cramps which I have suffered from off and on for..."

@trishdub
Thank you for responding! I will try some of your suggestions that I am not already doing. I'm 77 and have had these cramps for years, had them stop and they have now restarted every night after 2 hours' sleep. Then I'm up and down the rest of the night until I just get up. I'm already taking a multitude of supplements but will start with the CoQ10 tonight. My physical therapist has used radio frequency on the nerves which helped some for a day or two, but it is an alternative treatment and not real reliable. I've also tried 3 prescription meds which haven't helped either - painkillers and muscle relaxers. I look forward to a time where insomnia was my only concern at night! Thank you again.