Yes, muscle cramps, including leg and foot cramps, are common in people with myasthenia gravis. These cramps can be particularly challenging when they affect toe movement. The cramps often follow a similar pattern as other MG symptoms, and can be related to the medications used to treat MG, particularly cholinesterase Show Full Answer
Yes, muscle cramps, including leg and foot cramps, are common in people with myasthenia gravis. These cramps can be particularly challenging when they affect toe movement. The cramps often follow a similar pattern as other MG symptoms, and can be related to the medications used to treat MG, particularly cholinesterase inhibitors like pyridostigmine.
Between 30-40% of people taking pyridostigmine report experiencing muscle cramps as a side effect. Here are some management strategies that may help:
• Stay hydrated - dehydration can cause electrolyte imbalances that trigger cramps
• Try temperature therapy - either ice packs or heating pads (be careful not to overheat)
• Consider gentle stretching and massage
• Keep track of when cramps occur and discuss with your doctor
If you're experiencing regular cramps, it's important to discuss this with your healthcare provider as they may need to adjust your medication or check for other contributing factors.
September 27, 2025
I used to have cramps in my toes, arches, sometimes my calf. I started to make sure I was eating enough potassium in my diet. Once I increased potassium, my cramping has become more rare. Before Mestinon, the cramping was a magnesium issue, after Mestinon it became a potassium issue. I do take a whole food multi-vitamin (better gut absorption). I do still have cramps, but they are not more rare & then I ask myself...have I eaten enough potassium, I increase and again it resolves. I hope this helps y'all. Hugs
September 27, 2025 (edited)
Yes. Ive had cramps in my calves so bad they have left bruises. Most painful thing I have ever experienced
September 27, 2025