Any Advice Please

Mairs

Hi, I’m 55 and have CP spasticity in my right leg.  This has increased significantly while I await a hip replacement as mine has gone AWOL ?. My thigh is contracting and making things worse. I can’t put weight on my right leg.  I walk with a frame.  No involvement with NHS apart from being on list for hip replacement.  Has anyone any advice how to ease the thigh muscles etc.  Thanks

Richard_Scope

Hi @Mairs, your thigh is contracting because it is essentially having to multi-task at the moment due to issue with your hip. It is overworking, helping with movement and balance. Whereas it should be primarily responsible for movement. 
There are some get muscle rubs available that has really help me with my tight hamstrings, such as Deep Heat or Tiger Balm. Having a warm bath (if you have a bath) in Epsom salts is also a good way to relax overworked muscles. Due to the high magnesium content of the salts.
Resting it as much as you can also have huge benefits but I understand that this isn't always possible. 
Have you spoken to your G.P. about Baclofen? A muscle relaxant might be something to discuss with your doctor whilst you wait for the hip surgery.

Mairs

Hi Richard, thank you.  I will consider baclofen.  Not got a bath unfortunately.  Muscle spasms are horrible!

Richard_Scope

They most certainly are. The muscle rubs might be of some use as well.

WestHam06

Hi @Mairs, 
                  I'm sorry to hear that you are experiencing muscle spasms as you await a hip replacement, they certainly are horrible. I can only echo what @Richard_Scope has said regarding Baclofen, I was put on it to help with muscle spasms and it did help. It is probably worth a discussion with your GP if you feel it is an option you would like to explore. I also use Deep Heat to help when my muscles are extremely tight as well as a hot water bottle. I hope that this helps. Thank you. 

Mairs

Hi again, I hope everyone’s ok.  Ive been prescribed baclofen and waiting for it to arrive.  What should I expect with this? Will it weaken my arm muscles?  I use a frame and need full use of my arms to move around?  Thanks

Denise11

Hi Maris
I take Baclofen and don't worry.  You may feel rather sleepy while you get used to them but they don't make your muscles feel any weaker!  

Denise11

newborn

No idea if hot water bottles do any good, but some types of spasms and cramps and pains are eased for some people.   If heat is any good for you, try an electric heat pad,  because its a lot more convenient than water.

WestHam06

Hi @Mairs, 
                   There may be the possibility of you feeling sleepy as you adjust to the new dosage but it shouldn't make your muscles feel weaker only more relaxed. There should be a list of possible side effects when the Baclofen arrives so it is worth just reading through these just so you are aware of them. Anything you feel unsure off then you should speak to the Doctor who prescribed it. I hope it helps. Thank you. 

Richard_Scope

Hi @Mairs
How are you?

Mairs

Hi Richard, thanks for asking.  This forum has helped me get diagnosed with ADHD and be prescribed Baclofen.  The muscle spasms are less frequent and less severe so there is less dread in moving!  The ADHD was surprising but helped make sense of things.  Thank to everyone for the support and advice 

Richard_Scope

Happy that we've been able to help. Remember we're always here.