I'm just about one year into swimming since stopping after college thirty years ago. I always retained great leg strength though biking but seven years ago I developed very bad sciatica at disc L5-S1, and pain down my left leg was excruciating. Three years ago I had a 2nd surgery and finally began recovery. The problem that remains is a tendency (actually more of a certainty) of getting bad cramps in my left calf and both arches in my feet. The chiropractors we get at big swim meets all say any nerve damage would be healed by now and I simply need to strengthen my calf muscle. Using fins will guarantee a cramp in seconds and actually so will a pull-buoy.
Anybody else every had this dilemma?
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Former Member
Hey Patrick! The cause of your cramps may be completely unrelated to your previous back problem. Are you keeping hydrated while you swim? I make sure to drink water before I swim and keep a bottle handy to drink from throughout my workout. And, depending on the conditions and workout, I will drink Gatorade (or something similar), as well.
You may also have a potassium defiency which can lead to cramping. It wouldn't hurt to eat a banana before you swim and see if that helps.
How cold is the water you are swimming in? As much as I love swimming in cooler water, my legs will cramp in anything cooler than 79 degrees, if I don't keep moving.
As you know, I am not a doctor, but I believe my suggestions are valid. If none of this applies to your situation, you may want to check with your doctor for advice.
Good luck and see you at the next meet! :D
Hey Elaine.... no, I'm sure this is sciatica related. I drink water and power aid through the day, and usually have at least one banana in the morning. It also doesn't matter what pool I'm at or the temp. I'm worried there's still a bit of pinched nerve in there so I'd start with an orthopedic specialist.
Hey Patrick! The cause of your cramps may be completely unrelated to your previous back problem. Are you keeping hydrated while you swim? I make sure to drink water before I swim and keep a bottle handy to drink from throughout my workout. And, depending on the conditions and workout, I will drink Gatorade (or something similar), as well.
You may also have a potassium defiency which can lead to cramping. It wouldn't hurt to eat a banana before you swim and see if that helps.
How cold is the water you are swimming in? As much as I love swimming in cooler water, my legs will cramp in anything cooler than 79 degrees, if I don't keep moving.
As you know, I am not a doctor, but I believe my suggestions are valid. If none of this applies to your situation, you may want to check with your doctor for advice.
Good luck and see you at the next meet! :D
Hey Elaine.... no, I'm sure this is sciatica related. I drink water and power aid through the day, and usually have at least one banana in the morning. It also doesn't matter what pool I'm at or the temp. I'm worried there's still a bit of pinched nerve in there so I'd start with an orthopedic specialist.
