Cramping in calves

[The Cure]

For the past two weeks I have had very sharp throbing pain in both my calves and feet. It feels just like a "Charlie Horse". I have increased my potasium and drank extra water. At times it is really unbearable and then it just passes. It comes and goes constantly.

[logansmom7402]

Potassium and water could help!  Eat a bananna every day, and drink  at least 6 8oz. glasses of water! GOOD Luck!

[stuckinabubble]

i used to get cramps in the back of my calves when I was heavy into soccer.  when I began to run it would tighten like an elastic and go numb.  I would not be able to run.  I would wait 10 seconds and go away.  I think it had to do with me growing and like puberty or something, cause my doctor could not explain them because they were awkward and not painful

[SAL1975]

Did you get the cramps after a flu shot by any chance? I had the same thing, except mine was follwed by pins and needles sensation on my feet for a couple days after. The cramps still bother me sometimes, but tingling is gone. I am wondering if its some rxn to the flu shot.

[GravesLady]

I don't know the causes of cramps.  

I have/had what I call charlie horses, while in bed and out, regardless of taking mega doses of vitamins and minerals.  What I am about to suggest is going to sound silly and impossible.  I heard it on another thyroid forum.  Its an old wives tale/folk wisdom , but true and works (for me and a lot of others).
Put a wrapped bar of soap under your bottom sheet.  No one knows how or why this works, except that it does.  I have a bar under my bottom sheet and I have not experienced a full blown cramp since.  I feel one coming on but it doesn't go any further than that. I am a happy camper :)

http://www.snopes.com/oldwives/legcramp.asp
http://www.healthcentral.com/peoplespharmacy/408/61043.html
http://www.peoplespharmacy.org/archives/home_remedies/soap_under_the_sheets_for_rls_leg_cramps.asp

Try it, what do you have to lose, but CRAMPS ;)

[camalmom]

Do you exercise? If you are make sure you do alot of stretching and cool downs. I had those really bad when I was younger from dancing and again when I was pregnant. When you get them flex your foot and that will help out. Hope that helps some!