Charley-horse cramps in my torso. Do my symptoms fit any diagnosis?

[Lingarvey]

I have suffered for years from painful muscle flare-ups. I have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome in the past, but I am not sure that my symptoms fit either diagnosis because the pain I experience is in the form of seemingly relentless charley horse-type cramps.

They can occur in my chest or mid to upper back or shoulders. This occurs 3-4 times a year, like clockwork, and lasts for about 4-6 weeks gradually increasing in severity and frequency the first week and tapering down by the 4th week leaving me very sore and exhausted. The rest of the year I am almost symptom free.

Some other basic info: - White, female, 53 years - 5'6", 158 lbs. - tried physical therapy (x2) - tried myofascial realease - Flexeril doesn't seem to help - MRI, x-rays: negative - take Zoloft, synthroid and Vit. D-3, calcium, magnesium, B-12 - healthy diet - active (walking, yoga, stretching) but no regimented exercise plan - stable family life, do not work; very active Red Cross Disaster Volunteer.

I would appreciate any insight as to the cause, treatment and management of this condition.. It is very upsetting to friends and family who have to helplessly watch me endure this cramping. Thanks for your time.

[Lingarvey]

Thanks for responding. Sure would be great if it is that simple!! We'll see.

[Tuckamore]

B12 is not absorbed well orally. In true Vit B12 deficiencies IM or Sub Q (infections) are the best route for proper absorption.

I'll be interested to hear your progress.

[Lingarvey]

Thanks so much. I am vitamin D deficient. I take 2000-4000 of D-3/day. I take a B-12, but not injections. I'll bring it up to my PCP.

[Tuckamore]

Hello and Welcome to the Pain Management Forum,

I know how painful these can be and am sorry that you suffer from these too. We all get these periodically but when mine became severe and often I went to my PCP. Though she is a wonderful physician and didn't dismiss my complaints she could offer no solutions.

They continued for almost 3 months last summer and I was beside myself so I began searching the www. What I found was dehydration or vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause severe muscle cramps and spasms (for Nick) often referred to as Charley Horses. I have malabsorption syndrome due to the loss of over 3 ft of small intestine. I also take a diuretic for hypertension.

Though I take supplements they were not enough. I went back to my PCP and she ran some blood tests. I was deficient in Vit D, Vit B12 and a bit dehydrated. I increased my water consumption and my PCP prescribed Vit D and increased my monthly injections dose of B12.  I no longer experience Charley Horses.

I am not saying that you have deficiencies or are dehydrated. I am not an expert. But it may be a place to begin your search for the cause of your muscle cramps. You may want to discuss this with your PCP.

Please take care and let us know how you are doing.
Good luck to you, Tuck

[nick30]

Forgive my lack of knowledge but what exactly is a charley-horse?

Nick.