Muscle cramps and spasms.

[scadman]

As posted previously I have being diagnosed as B12 deficient, and after some persuasion have been referred for nerve conduction tests and investigation by a medical registrar (this is quicker than waiting for a neurologist appointment, 12 month waiting list in my area). I am used to having spasms in my toes and fingers, these usually last for a couple of minutes but are very painful. 3 days ago I woke up early in the morning with excruciating pain from spasms or cramp in both of my calf muscles, Because of the pain I was unable to move for about 15 minutes when the spasm started to relax. Since then the calf muscles are still very tight and somewhat painful to move, it feels as if they are bruised. I find walking on a flat surface does make it easier, but any slope in the path especially upwards tightens the muscles up again. Is this a typical symptom of the B12 level dropped too low?

I am due for a B12 shot tomorrow. Will this help with the spasms, or should I see a doctor as well. My doctor's surgery has open surgery in the mornings so I could see one just after the shot.

[fbirder]

See a doctor. There are many possible causes for muscle cramps. Electrolyte imbalance is a common cause.

[potter5]

Hi Scadman, I have been having b12 injections 2 or 3 each week since last September for severe neurological symptoms. Cramps and spasms are part of these. The spasms are so bad my toes turn up, and ankles lock and calf muscles so tight I think my bones are breaking. Excruciating. Noticed a post on this site a number of weeks ago about magnesium for cramps. I did a little research and bought magnesium spray and massaged to feet and legs. I also sent for magnesium maleate supplement. which I understand does not give upset stomach. I have not had a full blown cramping episode since having the magnesium so I recommend you have a look at this. Last night I had lots of restless leg sensations and burning up my legs but It didn't go to cramp. I hope you feel better soon. Kind regards.

[scadman in reply to potter5]

Thanks for your reply, I have had spasms where my toes and fingers lock, and I've had cramp in my calf muscles, but this usually relaxes within a few minutes, but this is the first time It has lasted for 15 minutes and it was too painful to even try and move my legs. I am waiting for hospital appointments for nerve conduction tests, and further investigation in to the B12 and thyroid deficiency, but NHS Wales are notorious with their long waiting lists, I will look into the magnesium solution, its just frustrating that we have to find the solutions, when we supposedly have a fantastic Health Service that seems helpless to find answers.

[potter5]

Hi Scadman, yes you do a lot of research when you can't sleep. Certainly there is a mind of information on this site, without which I would have been lost. I am glad you are having nerve conductor test, has never been offered to me, I was offered antidepressants though, declined. The other thing which is important, eating, lots of potassium rich foods, e.g. bananas, kiwi, avocado, mango and many more, and eating plenty of dark green vegetables. I hope you get proper treatment and your cramps ease soon.

Kind regards