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?
Parents
Former Member
In addition to the water and potassium, you might want to also try 500mg of magnesium from your local pharmacy.
I used to always get cramps in my legs but taking potassium gluconate 550mg before swimming every day has helped me substantially.
I've heard from some that magnesium helps as well. It might be worth a shot. If you do try it, watch what you buy because some magnesium salts are laxatives- like magnesium citrate. You'd want to buy one recommended for muscle/nervous system/bone health. Eating lots of sugar and drinking alcohol can decrease your Mg levels substantially
I've had a few doctors recommend magnesium for my constant back spasms. It didn't help me, but I have a very complicated situation.
In addition to the water and potassium, you might want to also try 500mg of magnesium from your local pharmacy.
I used to always get cramps in my legs but taking potassium gluconate 550mg before swimming every day has helped me substantially.
I've heard from some that magnesium helps as well. It might be worth a shot. If you do try it, watch what you buy because some magnesium salts are laxatives- like magnesium citrate. You'd want to buy one recommended for muscle/nervous system/bone health. Eating lots of sugar and drinking alcohol can decrease your Mg levels substantially
I've had a few doctors recommend magnesium for my constant back spasms. It didn't help me, but I have a very complicated situation.
