Leg Cramps?

[Cherylbug]

Good morning everyone

I'm trying to start walking/jogging some and I'm having some cramps in the front part of my leg, like up the shin where the foot actually meets the leg. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to keep them at bay? I had my blood tested about a year ago figuring I was low on potassium but my potassium level is fine. Even the doctor doesn't know what's causing them. Any help/suggestions you can give is greatly appreciated. Leg cramps are no fun!!

 

[DoeWDW]

Cheryl, I'm sorry I don't have any experience or advice with this, but I do hope it gets better for you.

 

[BethR]

Hi Cheryl!

A couple of things. One - do you stretch your calves and shins at all? If not you should do so. Used to be that you should stretch BEFORE a workout, but now they say to stretch AFTER you work out. So if you are not, then give it a try.

Also, how are your shoes? Do they have enough cushioning? If they are not good running or walking shoes that have good support and cushioning, you may find yourself with shin pain.

YEARS ago when I used to do aerobics, when I first started, I just wore my favorite pair of sneakers. I used to have a lot of shin pain. When I talked to my instructor about it, she told me to try a new pair of shoes. When I switched, my pains went away.

Good Luck!

 

[Cherylbug]

Thanks for the well wishes guys.

To tell the truth I haven't been stretching like I should before or after exercising. I really need to remind myself to start doing that. Stretching is probably as important as the actual exercise itself.

Thanks again.

 

[karebear1]

IS it cramps, or could it be shin splints? That what it sounds like you're talking about. If it is, strecth more, go slower, do a little less and wrap your shins. Take it easy because you could do some long time damage and limit your ability to do good walking. I just got finished healing from shin spilnts and for me it took about 4 weeks of not walking that aorked for me. unfortunately, it was right before the WDW marathon! My trainer says we have a tendency to overdo when we start thigns or feel like we are ready to do more and more- then she says Just take it slow! So- I'll pass that along and hope it will help ya. Good luck!