Leg cramps

[Klorda]

Does anyone suffer from leg cramps? I have a severe “charlie horse” in my hamstring. I was wondering if I overworked it or is this a common symptom of AMN?

[monkeybus]

I used to, I'd wake up in the night in absolute agony. After I had my varicose veins stripped I was much better, that's better for cramps, spasms and spasticity.

Spasticity and spasms are getting worse now, as are my veins.

Spasticity and circulation disorders go hand in hand. You might want to get checked out.

[bluejadedwho]

Move and stretch as much as possible. I actually started indoor rock climbing. I had thought I couldn’t do it, as I use a walker to get around, and as you know with the hypertonia it’s very difficult to lift one’s legs very high. My friend encouraged me to do it , and I’ve been 5 times now and I have now made it 3/4 of the way up the wall. What an amazing, liberating experience and fantastic workout.

[julie_ in reply to bluejadedwho]

That's fantastic! Here in NYC, there is a group called Adaptive Climbers and there are lessons for indoor rock climbing. I've been wanting to go but I haven't gone. You've inspired me! Thank you!

[julie_]

I agree with stretching, stretching every chance you get. My hamstrings are very tight and I can get cramps even while stretching.

[jolocny Volunteer in reply to julie_]

I had a head PT at KKI who told me that she had terribly hamstrings ... and mine were worse than hers! As said above, STRETCH!! Every time you get a chance to!! It can make a world of difference.

Hats off to Bluejadedwho! That’s a wonderful experience for you! Thanks for sharing it!!

[SongStream]

I suspect this is common with AMN. I get mine randomly at night and in the calf muscles. It's as if someone grabbed my calf and put it in a vice. Weird thing, though, is when I touch it when it's cramped, it feels so hardened like concrete. Yep, that's some intense moment of pain.

[quilling]

I used to. Terrible Always waking me. I would try to stand and even try to get to cold tile floor-when I could walk. I was put on clonazapam and it has made a huge difference.