Cholesterol Medications
Question: Does anyone take micronized creatine as a supplement? My physical therapist says this may be beneficial to decrease the latent pain I have following physical therapy. She only works with me on stretching and range of motion and I don't necessarily have pain during my session. But I seem to have pain once I return home for the next 24-48 hours.
Dr. Bruno’s Response:
First, if you have pain 24 - 48 hours after PT you're doing the wrong thing in PT.
Second, research on creatine has been mixed.
Although some studies have found that it helps improve performance — not reduce pain — during short periods of exercise, there is no evidence that creatine helps with endurance, which is what polio survivors need. Research also shows that not everyone's muscles respond to creatine and some see no benefit.
Of importance:
Certain drugs, including anti-inflammatories, like ibuprofen and naproxen, and diuretics can have dangerous interactions with creatine.
Taking creatine with stimulants like caffeine and ephedra also can cause unwanted side effects.
Creatine is not recommended for people with kidney or liver disease or diabetes. If you are taking any medication that could affect your blood sugar be aware that creatine may lower blood sugar levels, which is not good for polio survivors.
As always, talk to your doctor before using creatine or any supplement.