Calf Cramps

By Jammer Thursday, December 06, 2007

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My stats - Male, 46 years, 180 lbs.

I have been living with Type 1 diabetes now for 24 years, all the test that my doctors have been running keep coming back with good or no signs of diabetes deteroration. but I have been having calf issues when I sleep, it seems that if I move my feet at night when I sleep my calf cramp, most of the time there is little pain just muscle in the calf locking up. I spoke to my doctor but he does not seem to thing it a threat because test results do not come back bad. I started having this problem a couple years ago. Any information of what going on will be greatly appreciated.

Comments (12) | Add comment

Phil

12/ 7/07 2:32pm

Don't tuck in the top sheet and blanket. When you turn, your foot stresses the calf and causes the problem.

Health catalogs carry metal frames and cushions designed to keep the weight of the shett and blanket off of your feet.

Anonymous

12/ 8/07 5:09pm

I have had type 2 for 20+ years and began to have calf cramps at night. Then I began to lose muscle strength. These were the first signs of spinal stenosis. I waited too long to see a neurolgist. Now, after two operations, my walking ability is permantly impaired. Diabetes is a tricky condition with many unknown consequences. Don't wait; see a specialist and get some MRIs.

Jammer

12/12/07 9:12pm

I just spoke to my Chiropracticer for normal alignment on my neck for be a slucher. Spoke to her about the cramps, she listened to my symptoms and said I should get tested for Deep Vein Thromp (DVT). Thanks for the advice, I will tell what doctor finds.

James

Clayton

8/ 1/08 2:29pm

I also am a Type one diabetic. I have the same problems and have been taking potassium tablets and a calcium, zinc, and magnesium tablets. I take 4 each twice a day. Once in the morning and just before going to bed. The cramps stopped. I bought the supplements from Wal-Mart and they were very cheap. I hope this helps you.

Linda

9/23/09 9:25am

Do you also suffer from neuropathy. I'm looking for relief from this and have tried Neurontin and Lyrica, with disasterous results. Doctors are blowing me off and I need help for my husband...NOW!

Clayton

9/23/09 10:44am

Hi Linda,

I am sorry your husband is going through this. I did for a short time have some neuropathy. But i was fortunate that once I got my sugar under control it stopped.

I will read some of my home cure books and let you know what I find.

Clayton

9/23/09 10:58am

Hi Linda,

I found two that may help. One is a webpage and the other one I copied and pasted here.

http://specialist-pages.com/kc_az/pdf/32DH_Neuropathy.pdf

Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha lipoic acid has been used by German physicians to treat neuropathy since 1959. In the United States, it's used as a home remedy or alternative cure. Alpha lipoic acid is sold in tablet form as a supplement. Typically 1,200 to 1,800 milligrams a day is required to treat the condition. Alpha lipoic acid is a fatty acid that's found inside every cell within the body. Its role is to convert glucose into energy, which is then used by the cell as fuel. It takes two to three weeks before a reduction in neuropathy symptoms is apparent.

Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine based on the body's ability to build a resistance toward a condition or invading toxin. Substances that are likely to cause the symptoms being cured are administered in heavily diluted forms. As the body becomes accustomed to minute amounts, its resistance is further strengthened by using a less diluted form of the substance. Homeopathic home remedies used to treat neuropathy include aconite, belladonna, cantharsis and hypercum.

Natural Home Remedies
St. John's Wort, skullcap and vitamin B6 can be used to treat nerve pain that occurs as a result of nerve damage. Evening primrose oil and magnesium help with reducing continued nerve damage. Other remedies include acupuncture, which applies needles to certain pressure points on the body, and regular exercise, which improves the body's circulation, relieves nerve pain and reduces damage.

I hope this helps. Please let me know if it does.

Clayton diehard12356@aol.com

Linda

9/24/09 7:48am

Hi Clayton...thanks so much for your reply and your concern. His sugar runs between 90-140, which the DR didn't think was out of control. It's just the neuropathy that's so bad and affecting all other aspects of his life. I was told about Nuregen, a homeopathic oil, and got some yesterday. We should know after a few days if it will work, but that's just a bandaid until we can find more permanent relief, and to stop the degeneration. I really appreciate all your efforts!! Linda

Linda

9/24/09 7:51am

Hello again Clayton...WOW, this is some really good information that I will definitely follow up on. I had no idea there was so much info out there! I'll let you know...and thanks SO much!!

Clayton

9/24/09 12:08pm

You are very welcome.... Please keep us informed on how this new treatment helps and if you find anything for a permanent solution.

Linda

9/24/09 4:18pm

Will do, gladly...

Anonymous

10/ 1/08 6:08pm

Hi Jammer,

I have had terrible cramping problems too. I can stand the feet and calves, but it's the thigh cramps that are excruciating enough and deep enough to leave bruises.

I've tried the following for foot cramps: A duvet in bed that's not tucked in and not heavy.

I've tried to establish an electrolyte balance with apple cider vinegar and water. Gatorade is supposed to be good for that too but is way too sugar laden for someone with type 2.

Then I tried magnesium and calcium supplements. Did no good.

Now I have started a regimen of taking quinine sulfate (perscription) every evening. So far so good, but then those thigh cramps only show up about once a month.

I hope you've found something to help.

Calf Cramps

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