Killer Calf Cramps - What happened?

[Beane]

I had this same experience -- extraordinarily painful cramp in the middle of the night (I actually woke up screaming). Let me know if you find anything out about how this happens. Thanks.

[Kimmyt]

I tend to get them when I'm doing very strenuous activity involving pointing my toes for a length of time. I've had some doozies swimming (thought I might actually need the lifeguard for that, was screaming and clutching to the side of the pool) and have had some doing more technical routes climbing.

Sometimes when I spin and my toes try and point instead of using the proper technique I feel like I'm going to get them, but I just make a point to drop my heels. Can't help you with the night thing though, maybe eat a banana before bed??

[Bklynmom]

[QUOTE=Kimmyt;213060]I've had some doozies swimming (thought I might actually need the lifeguard for that, was screaming and clutching to the side of the pool)

I have had them from swimming too - sure that was dehydration - screamed and was rescued by a swimmer who bent my foot for me...

Maybe it was spinning - I did it in sneakers instead of bike shoes, maybe that was a reason.

Bananas before bed will become my routine for sure.

[Jolt]

I have had them from swimming too - sure that was dehydration - screamed and was rescued by a swimmer who bent my foot for me...

I have gotten them while swimming as well, usually when using fins. I have found that it is especially likely to happen when using fins that are a little too big for my feet, for some reason.

[Fredwina]

I get these too, I've mentioned them to several Docs, and the reply has always been "don't worry"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cramp#Nocturnal_leg_cramps
http://alternative-medicine-and-heal...s/legcramp.htm
http://www.diagnose-me.com/cond/C466614.html

[Running Mommy]

What knat said... Calcium, magnesium, and potassium....
Also can be dehydration. But mag is usually the culprit.

[melissam]

Oof, Bklynmom, that sounds painful!

My theory is that the major contributing factor was spinning in sneakers. The softer soles may have resulted in your toes pointing downward during the longer endurance session, which may have put more strain on the calf muscle.

Of course, this is only a theory from a person with absolutely no medical training. That and $5.00 might buy you a cup of coffee (depending on where you buy your cup of coffee.)