HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Suggest Treatment For Recurring Painful Muscle Cramps In Calves

Hello... I am 56 years old. In very good health. Never any major medical issues before. Over the past few months, I am getting such serious charlie horses in my calves while I sleep that it literally makes me jump out of bed to my feet. At first I cannot flatten my feet on the ground but after a few seconds am able to flatten my feet and the charlie horse will stop. But as I sleep I am mentally conscious about not stretching my legs out too much in fear of getting another one. I have never taken vitamins out of a bottle. I eat very healthy and have increased on banana and strawberries thinking it may be lack of potassium in my system. I eat a banana before I go to sleep now too but the charlie horses are still happening. Any suggestions or ideas? Thanks in advance Sorry but I see that this costs money to ask you... I don t have a credit card or debit card, so I can t pay you... Will try another website then. Thanks anyway
Thu, 27 Feb 2020
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Since you have a history of charlie horses, you are suggested to take plenty of vitamin D-3, potassium, magnesium and calcium. Get blood tests done to detect the mineral levels in your blood. Stay well hydrated & take electrol/ORS to prevent charlie horses. Heating pads relax the muscles & ice packs will reduce the pain. NSAIDS & antispasmodic medications are effective. Stretch before going to bed. Avoid exercises in severe weather.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
Suggest Treatment For Recurring Painful Muscle Cramps In Calves

Hello, Since you have a history of charlie horses, you are suggested to take plenty of vitamin D-3, potassium, magnesium and calcium. Get blood tests done to detect the mineral levels in your blood. Stay well hydrated & take electrol/ORS to prevent charlie horses. Heating pads relax the muscles & ice packs will reduce the pain. NSAIDS & antispasmodic medications are effective. Stretch before going to bed. Avoid exercises in severe weather. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K, General & Family Physician