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Real members of myRAteam 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.

Is anybody else experiencing pain in their leg muscles? I had a number of charley horses during the night. I can barely walk without pain.

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Clarks Summit, PA
1 day ago
 · 
Be the first to react
A myRAteam Member

I'm not taking methotrexate, soit may well be lack of hydration and low levels of potassium since I do take diuretics.

1 day ago
A myRAteam Member

Eleanor. Do you get the leg cramps and charley horses, too? I found a product that works wonderfully in relieving them. It's called Theraworx, and it's a Godsend! I can now walk after applying it a couple of times at night.

14 hours ago
A myRAteam Member

Exactly what I'm going through. I live alone and I constantly go to the Emergency room because I feel so miserable, I feel like I'm dying.They gave me every medication possible but none of it lasts. I went to the ER twice this week.

1 day ago
myRAteam

Leg cramps and charley horses are something many myRAteam members have dealt with, so you're definitely not alone! One myRAteam member described getting them constantly and finding them very painful, while another shared that after a bad charley horse they could barely walk the next day.

There are a few possible reasons Show Full Answer

Leg cramps and charley horses are something many myRAteam members have dealt with, so you're definitely not alone! One myRAteam member described getting them constantly and finding them very painful, while another shared that after a bad charley horse they could barely walk the next day.

There are a few possible reasons this might be happening, including RA itself and its treatments. If you're taking methotrexate, muscle spasms are a known side effect, and these can develop into painful cramps. It's worth flagging this with your rheumatologist so they can help figure out the cause.

Other possible triggers include:

- Dehydration, especially after exercise
- Low levels of key minerals like calcium, magnesium, or potassium
- Overworking or straining a muscle
- Compressed nerves Some things that may help in the meantime:

- Stretch gently before and after activity, and before bed if cramps happen at night
- Stay well hydrated throughout the day — fluids help muscles contract and relax properly
- Apply heat to the affected area for relief

Given that you're having trouble walking, it's a good idea to reach out to your rheumatologist soon to rule out any underlying causes and get the right support.

1 day ago

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