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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does anyone experience severe cramps in thighs, calves,toes and feet

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
South Africa Cape Town
August 8
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Reactions
A MyLupusTeam Member

Have you tried gabapentin? I take it for pain and restless leg syndrome. It really works great!! Maybe the cramps could be nerve related because as we all know, lupus messes with us in mysterious ways! Something to talk to your rheumatologist about.

August 9
MyLupusTeam

Yes, severe cramps in the thighs, calves, toes, and feet are something many people with lupus experience. One MyLupusTeam member described cramps so intense they would jump out of bed in the middle of the night to stretch, while another had a thigh cramp that lasted hours and ended up in the ER.

Lupus can cause muscle pain Show Full Answer

Yes, severe cramps in the thighs, calves, toes, and feet are something many people with lupus experience. One MyLupusTeam member described cramps so intense they would jump out of bed in the middle of the night to stretch, while another had a thigh cramp that lasted hours and ended up in the ER.

Lupus can cause muscle pain and cramps throughout the body, and several factors may contribute to this:

- Lupus flares — cramps and muscle aches often worsen during a flare
- Dehydration — not drinking enough fluids can trigger muscle spasms
- Electrolyte imbalances — low potassium, calcium, or magnesium can cause muscles to cramp
- Kidney involvement — lupus can affect the kidneys, which in turn disrupts electrolyte balance
- Medication side effects — long-term corticosteroid use or cholesterol-lowering drugs can contribute to muscle pain There are several ways to find relief when cramps strike:

- Gentle stretching — for calf cramps, try lowering your heel off the edge of a step and holding briefly
- Heat therapy — a heating pad or warm towel can help relax the muscle
- Cold therapy — rubbing ice wrapped in a towel over the cramped area can also help
- Hydration — drinking fluids with electrolytes like coconut water or sports drinks may help
- Potassium-rich foods — bananas and leafy greens can support muscle health

If cramps are frequent or severe, it's worth talking to your rheumatologist. They can check for underlying causes like electrolyte imbalances or kidney issues and recommend the right treatment for you.

August 8
A MyLupusTeam Member

Im trying the magnesium glycinate with melatonin tonight for my foot and leg cramps. I feel hopeful for the first time in a very long time. And looking forward to going to bed, fingers 🤞 I would cross my toes but my feet are so swollen it would cause alot more pain. 🤣 🤣 🤣

August 28
A MyLupusTeam Member

I usually get such cramps in my thighs, that I can't lay on my sides, but it's the only way I can sleep. My back gets this horrible rash/pain and hotness to it if I try to lay down on it. Any suggestions. Yes I've tried vitamins, muscle relaxers. These cramps are deep within my thighs. No massages work,even the deep tissue ones. I am at a loss

August 8
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member, I use to get really bad cramps getting out of bed in the morning in the sole of my feet; but since I started eating a banana every day and taking magnesium and potassium supplements, I really don't get them anymore.

August 8

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