Left foot contracts
Question
I only have this issue when I walk on a treadmill. My left foot contracts or cramps up. It contorts in (toes curl under) and it is very uncomfortable. It is hard to described because it is not really painful...just contorts and makes it impossible to walk. It begins about 4-5 minutes in.
I have had vascular tests, seen a podiatrist who prescribed arch supports, have tried Bitter lemon with quinine, purchased new shoes, have had blood test, physical and all checks out well and none of the interventions have helped.
I really miss the treadmill and am determined to find the issue. I am now off one of my statins Rx for cholesterol for about a week. Also I have had hamstring tears and ongoing discomfort/weakness for about four years which has always seemed odd.
I am obviously frustrated because my physician seems disinterested and told me to try the Schwepps Bitter Lemon with quinine and if that did not work to stop the Pravastatin.
I am perplexed and I realize the results as to whether the statin is the cause could take some time.
Any thoughts or experience with this.
I will be very unhappy if I am told to quit the treadmill.
Answer
Not being able to do your preferred exercise is very frustrating. I sincerely empathize.
I can give no medical advice. However, the muscle problems do sound like the the kinds of things people sometimes report after using statin drugs. You did not mention whether these problems began after you started the drug, but the implication is that is what happened.
I don't have any personal experience with this, nor do I know anyone who has. However, it is something I have followed for years. One thing you might try is 50-100 mg per day of CoQ10. Statin drugs deplete CoQ10 in the body, so supplementation is important. I don't know if the muscle problems are directly related to CoQ10 depletion, but some aspect of your health will be.
Without the statin, you will need to try alternate methods of controlling your cholesterol. Of course, a strong exercise program should help with this.
Sorry I can't be of more help.
footwear for walking on a treadmill
walking