I think that I am going to scream

1070 Views 9 Replies 9 Participants Last post by DrChris, Jul 22, 2007

muzicgrl

Discussion Starter · Jun 27, 2007

What the heck is going on with me? Every other week I have a calf issue (and no...its not always the same leg) and it is interfering with my marathon training. The last two times the pain has started with a calf cramp while swimming. What the hell? I am taking mg and ca. I dont know what else to do to stop the cramping and resulting calf pain that requires skippage of planned workouts. Maybe its my swimming form? I am getting frustrated! <img alt="sad2.gif" src="http://files.kickrunners.com/smilies/sad2.gif">

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JackDuggan

· #2 · Jun 28, 2007

my left calf has been bothering me. I have no pain after the first half mile of a run. Then it bothers me for most of the day. 
I have learned to stretch it more than the right calf and that seems to help. Also running on grass and trails has helped 
I cant guess why your pain takes turns with your calves, equal oppurtuinuty pain? <img alt="smile.gif" src="http://files.kickrunners.com/smilies/smile.gif">

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merigayle

· #3 · Jun 28, 2007

did you try the homeopathic remedy? Hylands Homeopathic Leg Cramp Remedy with Quinine. Also, i find Mg on its own works best. As does eating bananas! <img alt="" src="http://img.shopping.com/cctool/PrdImg/images/pr/177X150/00/01/ec/0c/cc/32246988.JPG" style="border:0px solid;">

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Durt

· #4 · Jun 28, 2007

Are you hydrating properly and getting a balance of electrolytes during your activity?

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sistergoldenhair

· #5 · Jun 28, 2007

It sounds like it's something you're doing in the pool. Are you kicking overly hard or not relaxing your ankles during the kick? Are you stretching your calves before and during your swim?

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GaRebelRunner

· #6 · Jun 28, 2007

Maybe it's how you are swimming. All my life if I swim on my back I get severe calf muscle cramps in both legs. I have no idea why. 
I think there is a greater tendency to overtrain our bodies today due to all the activities available to us - marathons, ultras, tri's. Perhaps you just need to slow it down a little.

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tigger

· #7 · Jun 29, 2007

My calves cramp up when I run short on potassium. Eat a banana every day to make sure you're topped up.

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muzicgrl

Discussion Starter · #8 · Jun 30, 2007

I hate bananas but I eat raisins every morning (and they have just as much potassium. I really dont think that it is potassium, magnesium, or calcium because by all accounts I am getting plenty of all. I am also never dehydrated when it happens.

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solitude

· #9 · Jul 22, 2007

I hear that Anty says you should eat a banana every day for those pesky leg cramps! <img alt="wink.gif" src="http://files.kickrunners.com/smilies/wink.gif">

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DrChris

· #10 · Jul 22, 2007

Electrolytes are commonly attributed as reasons for cramps. My experience is that 90% of cramps are from not enough stretching. Obviously, dehyrdration and electrolyte imbalances are also a factor....but not as much as stretch. 
Really. 
Stretch more. A lot more.

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