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What Causes Constant Leg Cramps Along With Tightness?

Posted on Fri, 25 Sep 2015

Question: I've had this constant leg cramp, tightness for about a week now. I can get the pain to subside by changing positions of the way I am sitting or the way my leg is positioned. however, when I stand, I am forced to walk with a limp- and if I stand still, it gets worse almost like a XXXXXXX horse coming on. I can relieve it slightly by pointing toes upward or standing on my heel. I have been tested 2x to rule out DVT, both ultrasounds which were three days apart were both negative. I've been dealing with a horrible L-4, L5 injury the last 4 weeks. the disc is apparently not herniated, rather I have no disc left in that region. I am not able to have any scans at the moment because I am pregnant. could this be an impinged nerve?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes most probably it is nerve compression

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have studied your case and I think most common cause of such pain is disc herniation and nerve compression. In pregnancy there is change in the posture of the spine and it causes more nerve pain.
I would suggest you to get MRI scan to confirm this problem.You have not mentioned in which month your pregnancy is? If it is more then 5 months then you can take Pregabalin M tablet at night time after discussing with your doctor.
I hope this answer will be useful for you.Let me know if there is any other followup questions.
thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (7 hours later)

I am almost 13 weeks. I have a long way to go. this is why they refuse to do any MRI's or give me any medications right now. however, am I just supposed to suffer my entire pregnancy? I understand that may be protecting baby from health complications but, won't walking on this impinged nerve cause more damage?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
MRI can be done

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I do not think MRI can not be done. It is not harmful for your baby. medicines can be taken in second trimester. You need to avoid bending forward and sleep with your knee bend. Nerve impingement will not going to worsened after this if you follow these instructions .
thanks

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar