Question:
Was there ever any clear answers to this question about muscle spasms?

I am now 2 weeks post-op. When I was released, I also had these muscle spasms from hell which lasted sometimes up to 20 minutes at a time. I did find out from a friend of mine that a bag of ice helps. I also took extra calcium, drank it with a glass of milk, and a potassium tablet with part of a banana. I think mine started because I was suddenly walking a flight of stairs at least 3 times a day (which I was not used to, even pre-op), and/or because I started taking my triam hctz med for high blood pressure because my feet were so swollen from water retention. I only took 2 days worth before the spasms started, then quickly discontinued taking them. My blood pressure was actually fine, I just wanted to get rid of some water. Anyway, these were the worst spasms I have ever had and I have had more than my fair share with the Triam hctz. But, I would like to know if anything was ever found out for sure about this, or if anyone else has found a quicker way to get out of them...    — Squirlgirl (posted on March 26, 2002)

March 26, 2002
My husband has spasms from working on the house and Gatorade helps. It puts electrolytes back into you. Read the label since I am not sure it is something you should have after surgery since I believe it is high in Carbs. Heat also helps. If you don't have a heating pad or if they happen in places you can't plug in they have "band aid" heat packs. You peel them and stick them to you and they will stay hot for 8 hours. The air activates them. I saw them at Wal-Mart and are a new product but you probably can findd them anywhere.
   — Rebecca K.

March 26, 2002
Hi I also have muscle spasms and I havent even had the surgery yet. I think you are on the right tract with the banana and posstasium. I also find that if you drink a ton of water this will help. Some told me that it is your body telling you that you are dehydrated. I also do the ice and then the heat. I have had them so bad in the middle of the nite, when I will have them in my side and in a leg that I have jumped in the shower in my pj's. There is also some suggestion in the library section of this web site. Hope this helps.
   — paulsgirl