How to eliminate nocturnal leg cramps
I had a routine ankle arthroscopy 7 years ago (left ankle) due to old MVA (motor vehicle accident). I got a golden staph infection and had 3 months on flucloxacillin. I recovered. Pain continues but that is not my current problem.
6 years ago I started getting nocturnal leg and foot cramps. Mainly in the left foot and calf. Sometimes also in my right calf (much milder)
My GP (general practitioner) suggested I take magnesium- which I did with good results. After about year I started developing other symptoms. Noticeably hot feet at night, tingling/numbness in the hands. Then I became clumsy, unsteady on my feet and then my vision began to fluctuate. Terrible brain fog. Trembling hands. After 5 years of taking magnesium I was alerted to the possibility of B6 toxicity. I saw I was taking 25mg a day in the magnesium. I had my blood tested and yes, I had very high levels of B6.
I have been detoxing for 2 months.
This is the background to my question.
Since stopping the magnesium and the B6 I cannot control the foot and leg cramps.
My magnesium levels are ‘normal’. My full blood scan was ‘normal’ except for high B6.
I don’t have diabetes, I don’t have thyroid issues. I have a healthy BMI. I have good electrolyte balance. I am hydrated.
The only relief I can get is rubbing the cramping area with an anti-inflammatory gel.
I’m so tired. I dread going to bed. I sleep a few hours, awake with sharp pain, dance around the room, rub the area with gel. Drink some water. Get back to sleep. 2-3 hours later - start again!
I would love to hear from anyone who has had this and found a cure.
Thx
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@brucerocheleau
I am sorry to hear your condition. I am 75 yo male and do have occasional cramps. I am still play pickleball and walk frequently but not in the same day when playing pickleball. I hate taking medicine for everything. My condition appeared to be alleviated by changing my habits. I drink more during the day time, even in the evening. Cutting down on my alcohol consumption. Unfortunately, drink more in the evening caused me to waking up during the night to urinate. Also, I found it quite helpful after walking or any exercise is doing stretching, especially the lower extremities, legs and toes. My bad habit is watching night games on TV after supper for hours without moving. I am trying to break that. I believe try to stretch about an hour before going to bed may help. Hope this helps. Good Luck and Good Health!
Thanks for the ideas. I tend not to drink enough fluids during the day so I will endeavor to hydrate better. That is a possible contributing factor to my cramps.