I will be phoning NHS direct once they're less busy as my problem isn't urgent, and was wondering if anyone could shed some light on my symptoms in the meantime.
On boxing day, i started to have pains in my lower right leg. This didn't cause me too much concern, as i've had them before where i feel wearing high heeled boots and sitting at the computer for long periods caused this. However, the pain is much more profound and different, very much a heavy, crampy feeling. I can still move my toes, but not freely.
I've done a google to read up on blood clots, and don't think i have this as my leg isn't swollen, red or hot, so i think its more muscle related. I've recently changed from high heeled boots to completely flat ones with no heel, coupled with sitting at the computer and was wondering if these two factors have exacerbated what i have experienced before.
Warmest wishes- calla lily x
Hi Calla lily,
you hit the nail on the head when you said about recently changing your footwear, your calf muscles have gone from a short inner range to a lengthened range, superficially your gastroc's whilst leg is extended and deeper your soleus when leg is bent sitting at computer etc. your body is now having to go thru' an anatomical adaptation to better deal with the new stresses you have put your calf muscles under, try alternating days footwear or wearing an "inbetweeny" now and again.
from a rehab point of view get a good massage and try to put calf muscles thru' full range of movement with legs straight then legs bent, drink plenty of fluids and if you get cramp try some tonic water daily.
best regards
Gaz
Hi Calla Lily,
get this seen to as soon as is practicable. It shouldn't be too bad tonight on the helpline.
In the meantime, I would be getting my ankle moving by circling the foot with the lower leg elevated - and have you any flight socks?
Worst poss scenario is a blood clot - but it may just be a cramp.
Let's hope you are OK, but get yourself assessed. You are no less important than all those other people!
Lots of love,
Sharonx
Many thanks for your informative replies Gaz and Sharon, :hug: a while after i posted, the crampy feeling subsided a bit but i had difficulty sleeping last night ( woke to pins and needles due to keeping my leg in one postion :o) and its affecting the way i walk- not good when walking is my method of transport! I will be taking your suggested excerises and have a look for some flight socks.:)
Something suspect is going on with that NHS direct line, i tried again last night and twice this morning to the same message. However, i held on this time and got through within a matter of seconds! :rolleyes:The nurse dosen't think i've got a blood clot, but advised me to take painkillers see my doctor if i've still got the pain in a few days time . They also recommended to have a chat with a pharmacist.:)
Thank you once again, its been most appreciated xx
Warmest wishes- christine x
Hi calla lily
Just as an add on:
To my knowledge and my apologies if I am repeating what has already been suggested:
Wearing high heels for extended periods of time can shorten your calf muscles and also tighten your Achilles tendons.
In what ever position is comfortable for you, use gentle exercises to lengthen these areas. These types of exercises will be useful when the muscles are cramping too.
Google 'calf lengthening exercises' and some examples are available in images.
Drink plenty of water, also pay attention to your diet. Magnesium is suggested for cramps. However, I am not really into supplements so, best to research this first or ask your pharmacist/GP.
All the best.
Rachel xXx
Hi Cirrus,
Thank you for your suggestion, :hug: i googled last night and with a combination of what everyone has advised, my leg is almost back to normal which i'm really pleased about as it means my pain was muscular, not circulatory- PHEW!
warmest wishes- calla lily x