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Hi, my name is clarehb21!

I am 37 i have mild cp which I originally thought was just in both my legs and worse on my left side but after a recent appointment with my consultant I was told it was mild in my arms too I have also got mild osteoarthritis in my left hip ..as I've gotten older i have realised when I'm ill or on my period I get really bad spasms in my legs its starts off as a burning sensation down my leg then a full blown spasm in my leg is there anything i can do to ease this or is this something i have to live with?
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I'll tag our Specialist Information Officer for CP in here, as I'm sure he'll be happy to try and help @Richard_Scope.
Have you spoken to a doctor? Are you currently having any physiotherapy, or on any medications?
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Good to meet you. Some women living with CP do experience an increase in muscle stiffness and spasms during their periods or when feeling under the weather. I would have a conversation with your GP and consultant about trying Baclofen to ease the spasms. I would also mention the burning sensation that you experience as this could be sciatica.
Specialist Information Officer - Cerebral Palsy
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How are you? Firstly, welcome to the community and thank you for joining us. I can empathise with what you are describing and agree with @Richard_Scope that it is definitely worth having a conversation with your GP about trying Baclofen as this may help to ease the spasms. Also, please may I ask, have you tried a hot water bottle as I know this is something that I find useful, though given the burning sensation you feel it may not be appropriate. Please do keep us updated and please do ask any questions you may have, there are many lovely people here on the community and we all support one another. Thank you
Thanks again
Clare
Specialist Information Officer - Cerebral Palsy
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Anecdotally, there is lots of evidence to show that the hormonal changes in the body during menstruation can have a negative effect on spasms and general muscle tightness.
Cerebral palsy itself isn't thought to be a direct cause of heavy or painful periods but there is not enough research currently for us to be certain of that fact.
Scope is currently involved in a research project with the University of Birmingham called Eternal:: healthcare for girls and women with CP across the life cycle. Take a look.
Specialist Information Officer - Cerebral Palsy
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