Neuropathy and leg cramps

@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!

@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.

Absolutely feel your pain. I have suffered with nocturnal leg cramps for at least 40 years and have tried every suggestion given. Mine are mostly in my toes, shins and calves. Occasionally they will affect my thighs which are by far the most excruciating and unbearable. For the last 6-7 months I have been using Theraworx for Muscle Cramps roll-on at bedtime and then use a heating pad for 10-15 minutes while laying in bed. If you try this be sure to follow the directions using 2 applications. Theraworx had other modes like spray foam, etc. The roll-on works best for me. I also take Cramp Defense supplements (4 pills after dinner). Start slowly with these. I also try to walk 2 miles every day. I was recently diagnosed with pn - pins and needles in the bottom of my feet and lower legs most noticeable in the evening and early a.m. and recently started taking 20mg. of duloxetine at dinner. This has cut that "sensation" by about 80%. (hardly noticeable during the daytime).