foot cramp, what can relieve?

[michelleric]

Hi all,
I have an appt next Monday for a second opinion from my ophthalmologist to a neurologist. I have had for the last month tingling/numb arm/hand/lips and some of my face. Diagnosed with Optic Neuritis and have been very dizzy and lightheaded. Well about a week ago, everything got better. Until 1 1/2 days ago, all coming back but with a new complaint. My calves have been very crampy, wakes me up at night, I can handle that...but since last night, my foot and toes on one foot are totally cramped and it is really  bad pain. The bottom of my foot feels like it is on fire, so painful. Anyone experience this and any home remedy you can let me know about. It has been for about 12 hours or so, and it is almost unbearable. I keep waiting for it to pass, but so far it is worse. Such strange stuff going on...
Thanks in advance,
Michelle

[nette573]

I have found if you eat a pickle it will help!  I love sour pickels.  My husband told his cardiologist that he was having leg cramps at night and he said eat a pickle and it works! Lynette:)

[julia111]

Hi Michelle.  I also get the painfull cramps that you describe.  

The only thing that works for me is to apply heat - usually in the form of a microwavable aromatherapy neck pad that I wrap around my foot.  The effect is almost immediate.  

I have on occasion needed my husband to put a wet bath towel in the microwave as the cramp was in my entire leg, and thus the neck pad was not sufficient.  However, once I have the heat wrapped around my leg, the cramp subsides and my leg returns to its usual shape.

I know they have slippers that you can heat in the microwave as well.  I think I'll ask Santa for those for Christmas!  : )

I hope this helps!

Julia

[jensequitur]

Michelle, I can't help you, but I wanted to offer my sympathy!  I've had problems with my feet since before I was diagnosed.  They cramp constantly, and I have to be very careful not to set them off.  Lately my right foot has been spasming at night - the big toe goes up, and won't go back down.

All I can recommend is the usual techniques for relieving sore crampy muscles.  Drink lots of water, stretch out your calves, and see if somebody will rub your feet for you.  If there's nobody around, find a tennis ball or golf ball, and roll it around under your foot.