Muscles in Legs Hurt Terribly

[2angelsinheaven]

I started Atkins on 1/4/04... and since then twice I've experienced times when for 3-4 days my legs hurt so bad I have to lay down or sit to deal with the pain. It almost feels like after a really hard workout the pain/burn you feel in your muscles the next day but 100X more intense.
The pain runs on the inner side of my legs, from high thigh to ankle and really strong around the upper part of my knee and ankle. Worsens when bending or sitting/standing. Today it is to the point I am in tears when I have to sit up. (It is not a weight issue, as I have been "pooh sized" for a long time and am very light on my feet and flexible even with the extra weight).
I took some muscle relaxers and a lortab I had from my car accident last year and it didn't even touch the pain, only enough to help me sleep. Woke up and its back again. Help! What is causing this, is it because of Atkins, what am I lacking???
It is even painful when I sit on something hard (back of thighs hurt).
I did go to WDW Sun for a few hours, but I have never had a problem with the parks, walking wise or pain the next day from it, expect maybe a blister or two... !
Thanks in advance all!

 

[DoomBuggieDriver]

I am so sorry to hear about your trouble, Angel. I remember when I was on Atkins for that first two week period, and I really felt tired and achy, but not as severe as what you are describing. I think it couldn't hurt just to check in with your primary care physician by phone to make sure these symptoms aren't something more serious, especially since you haven't had this problem before. I figure why mess around when a phone call can maybe get you some quick, professional answers. Your well being is too important. Let us know how it turns out.
Kathy

 

[DoeWDW]

I have to second Kathy's opinion! Sounds like a call to the doc might be in order.

Have you tried eating a banana?? Sometimes if you get really low on potassium it can cause muscle pain. I know they are higher carb but if eating a banana makes it feel better, then you can work on other ways to get potassium in your diet.

Please keep us posted - I'm worried about you!

Gentle ,
Doreen

 

[maciec]

I would get in to see your Dr also. I only tried Atkins for a week so I really can't say if it has to do with your diet.

I don't want to scare you, or profess that I know what your problem is, or even diagnose you, but what you are describing sounds like what happened to me when I ruptured 2 discs in my back.

Get it checked out! Even if it turns out to be nothing it will give you peace of mind.

Melissa

 

[TerriP]

Are you taking the vitamins/supplements that we are instructed to take in DANDR? Sounds like a lack of calcium and/or potassium. I agree with the others to check in with your doc, but make sure you are getting all of your essential vitamins/supplements as well.

Good Luck!!

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Along with the doctor advice, and the "balanced" nutrition, make sure you are also getting tons of water. Being on Atkins the extreme amount of carb lowering will lower your water retention. Pay attention to what you read in the book. You do not stay on the extreme low carb after time. There is planned add-in, just retraining for better life choices. Hopefully if doc agrees that it is not serious after you've begun adding back some "good/better choices as you progress, you will probably be feeling better. Good luck in you committment to become a healthier you.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Shortly after I began Atkins, I was getting terrible charley horses in my legs. Took Potassium pills in addition to my vitamins, but most importantly, MORE WATER!! People underestimate how damaging dehydration can be, and it's possible that that's the problem.

 

[Baileymouse]

Calcium, potassium, and make sure you drink your 64 oz. of water a day!!!!! The leg pains should stop. If they don't go to the dr.!!!!

 

[nativetxn]

I hope you are feeling better now. Are you still experiencing leg pain?

 

[2angelsinheaven]

Legs are better (cheated a bit) but came down with nasty cold/flu again and figured at this point I would rather cheat a little than feel like yuck! Will be back on track when I kick this thing. Thanks everyone for the suggestions, not sure what did it, the potassium or more water but my legs are better.

 

[DoomBuggieDriver]

Sorry to hear you came down with the flu/cold-that could have been part of the problem with your legs. So glad to hear you are feeling better-we were worried! Take care of yourself,
Kathy