Shin Pain Caused by Low Potassium

Shin pain radiates up the front, lower part of your leg. It can range from mild to severe. Shin pain is sometimes referred to as shin splints, but shin splints are caused by overuse or repetitive use of the shin. Low potassium can also cause shin pain and muscle pain in general. Shin Pain and Potassium You may experience shin pain while running or even by pointing your toes up to the sky. Low potassium can cause muscle pain in any part of your leg, including your quads, hamstring, calf and shin. Your muscles rely on potassium, along with other nutrients, to function properly. Potassium is a key nutrient in smooth muscle contraction, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center 1. It's important to keep a proper balance of potassium in your blood. Too much potassium is called hyperkalemia, while a potassium deficiency is known as hypokalemia. Causes The Western diet consumed by Americans is high in salt. Too much sodium, or table salt, can increase your need for potassium. A diet that lacks potassium in general can also cause a potassium deficiency. If you suffer from a malabsorption syndrome, such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease, this can also contribute to a potassium deficiency. Other causes for low potassium include diarrhea, excessive sweating, vomiting and malnutrition. Some medications, such as diuretics, can cause a potassium deficiency.

plays a key role in skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, making it important for normal digestive and muscular function. Many foods contain potassium, including all meats, some types of fish (such as salmon, cod, and flounder), and many fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Dairy products are also good sources of potassium. (ref1)

Source: Potassium | University of Maryland Medical Center http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/potassium#ixzz2vo6WD2ni University of Maryland Medical Center Follow us: @UMMC on Twitter | MedCenter on Faceboo 1k