Painful Leg Cramps: More Problems For Neuropathy Patients

Today's short post from myemail.constantcontact.com (see link below) addresses a problem that many neuropathy patients have and that is recurring leg cramps...especially at night. Many people will be well aware of the numbness, tingling and burning around the feet but add to that crippling cramps that seem to appear out of nowhere and life becomes extra difficult. This article contains an interesting tip involving pickle juice but as with everything like this, it's wise to check with your doctor first, especially if you have other conditions that may play a role.

Are Leg Cramps Keeping You up at Night?
Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy Feb 2019

An article in the American Family Physician estimates that up to 60 percent of adults have reported that they have experienced some sort of nocturnal leg cramps.


If you find that you are experiencing nocturnal leg cramps, what can you do about them? An article in RedOrbit gives us some ideas.


First, see if you can determine what is causing the nocturnal cramps. According to the Mayo Clinic, nocturnal let cramps can be related to other underlying conditions, including peripheral neuropathy, which might need to be addressed. Leg cramps can also be related to certain medications which may need to be adjusted.


Second, can you connect your leg cramps to your activities during the day? Are you overexerting your muscles, standing too long or not moving enough? Crossing your legs, pointing your toes, or positioning your feet wrongly could be causing your muscles to tighten and cramp. Stretching and strengthening the calf and leg muscles can help reduce pain.


Other ways you can reduce the likelihood of leg cramps are: 

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated

Use those leg muscles a bit before bed. Do stretches or yoga or even a bit of cycling on an exercise bike before bed to stretch and loosen the leg muscles

Check your sleep position. Sleeping on your back may reduce the likelihood of muscle cramps. 

Finally, what do you do if you still feel that uncomfortable cramping at night? 

Try using heat, like a hot water bottle, heating pad, hot towel or a warm bath to soothe tight muscles.

Pickle Juice. While it is still a mystery why pickle juice helps, there seems to be some truth to the rumor. And even some evidence behind it. If you aren't limiting your salt intake, it might be worth a try.

Stretching, moving, flex your foot, walk on heels- or any other movement that may help the muscle relax.

Over the counter pain relief- like ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen.


Final thought: as with any recurring symptom you may have, and before you take any additional medication, check with your doctor. There may be other ways to help reduce those nocturnal leg cramps and help you get a good night sleep.


  Disclaimer: The information contained in this living well tips is not intended to substitute for informed medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified health care provider. You are strongly encouraged to consult a neurologist with any questions or comments you may have regarding your condition. The best care can only be given by a qualified provider who knows you personally.

https://myemail.constantcontact.com/FPN-E-Tips--Leg-Cramps-at-Night-and-What-You-Can-Do.html?soid=1102887337862&aid=CfOHaUfRB5U