Anyone here load Creatine on a regular basis?

[General Zod]

Totally off-topic from the norm that we see here, but I was wondering if anyone is into extreme workouts, lifting and such?

I've been using this new creatine, same intake procedure, 4oz. glass of grape juice with my loading. Over the past few days I've been getting really sore around the knees, most noticeable the hamstrings. They seem to swell for hours, and the pain is definitely unbearable.

Anyone ever experience this? Or at least a remedy on what I should do. I'm already out of the initial stacking phase, and now my doses are 1 per day.

I've just never had a problem like this before, and not something I want to run to the dr. about.

Thanks in advance.

[sirwoogie]

If you are getting PAIN from using this type of product, then perhaps you have some sort of reaction to it. That is when you definitely should consult a physician. If you don't want to go to the family doctor, then I suggest contacting a certified trainer of some sort. Go to a gym or fitness area and ask to speak with the on-site physician or sports trainer. I use creatine amongst other things in my routine, but have not experienced the side effects you have.

Realize of course that creatine causes water retention (among other things), and this may just be a side effect of this retention. This could be exacerbating a more medical issue you have in those areas. This could also be a significant area of your diet that is being neglected (not enough water, essential minerals, etc.). I strongly suggest seeking professional opinion whenever you shake up your training routine, especially when introducing chemicals into the mix.

[DrewKaree]

While I haven't done it, I looked into it long ago (about 5-6 years) and from what I remember, joint issues were a potential issue throughout use, as you would be adding more mass than your body would normally produce in that period of time.....the hammies may just be a stretching issue - they've ALWAYS been like that for me, and if I miss a stretch before even doing basic stuff like playing basketball, I'm hurtin' for certain. 

I'm nowhere near built, only big in the head muscle, so take this for what it's worth....I'd say some 'net research will bring up this situation for more than just you.  Give it a whirl and see if they agree with me or if they have even more info for ya.

[Dartful Dodger]

What work out are you doing for your legs?

Without knowing your routine these are my guesses:

You might be working on just your hamstrings and not your quads, or visa versa.

You might be hyper extending your knees when you press.

See a doctor.

[stevejt]

I have used creatine in the past.  Independent studies have show that a loading phase is not necessary.  In fact it is actually worse than not loading.  I have remember nothing about joint pain though,(that does not mean there isn't an issue).  You might be having a personal reaction, or just working out harder because you think your s**t doesn't stink anymore because you take creatine.   If you take a loading phase your body slows it's normal processing of creatine.  Which means when you end your loading phase, your body now processes less than if you didn't.  Compare it to this:  If you read any weight lifting magazines, you have heard them say that your body doesn't store something if it's in abundance.  Drinking less water causes your body to store it more.  Weight lifters drink gallons a day, to cut it down just days before a contest.  They actually up their water the previous week, to make the body think it has no reason to store any.  Also studies have also shown that 2grams a day is enough if you are consistant.  Most labels tell you you need at least 5grams,(at least they used to).  The only side effect I remember is that LOW QUALITY creating used to cause the runs.  I have bad knees, so I use GNC's "megajoint", for the glucosomine.  It just happens to have 2g of creatine per serving.  If consistant, there is a noticeable effect of creatine.  I would worry about taking too much, as with ANYTHING you take.  BTW, the megajoint also has a noticeable effect after a few weeks.  I have had knee pain after working out my entire life.  And Shoulder and neck pain after working out since a car accident.  After a few weeks of megajoint, the joint pain was gone.

Just My 2cents.

Steve

[General Zod]

Realize of course that creatine causes water retention (among other things), and this may just be a side effect of this retention. This could be exacerbating a more medical issue you have in those areas. This could also be a significant area of your diet that is being neglected (not enough water, essential minerals, etc.). I strongly suggest seeking professional opinion whenever you shake up your training routine, especially when introducing chemicals into the mix.

I've been taking in no less than 2 gals. per day of water since starting this new routine. Not to mention I'm also using a different brand of creatine. I've switched a few times over the past couple of years with no problem, that's why this time is a little scary.

My actual routine hasn't changed in over 3 years, but lately I have been riding my bike to and from work. I have a good mate at work who suggest my diet might also be out of whack. I've been trying to eat at least 5-6 times a day, but with work, sometimes I only take in 2 or 3 meals, and nothing after 6pm. I do take in a shake right before bed, along with 2 5-HTP caps.

I'm sure we could prpbably talk forever about this , esp. now that I found a few good friends here who also do training. I appreciate your help, and I'll let you know, .... if it's okay , of my findings in the next few days. I should really force myself to eat more often, like I have in the past.

I've been doing some research also, trying to get a good lead, and it seems as if water might be an issue, just as some of you had mentioned. Also, I read about staying away from creatine made in either Germany or China.

So yes, thank you all indeed for the advice. I sincerely appreciate it.

Mike

[danny_galaga]

chadtower might have some ideas

[sirwoogie]

You are correct that certain creatine is not as good as others. However, most German creatine is the best in the world. I use a brand from SciTrex that I have had good luck with, and don't really read anything negative on this brand. I also have several bodybuilding friends that didn't have an issue with this brand either:

http://www.scitrex.com/strength/products.htm

Again, I strongly urge you to consult a physical trainer that can guide you better in this field.

[Crazy Cooter]

If it hurts, something isn't "right".  I'd ask the Doc.  I never had any swelling due to it.  Maybe you need more off time?  It might be working well enough that you need another day between using those muscles.  I'd start there.

I used creatine before and had great results (black containers - don't remember brand).  I plan on getting back on it again once my leg is up to snuff.

As far as eating more often, use a blender.  It looks gross, tastes worse, but works well and facilitates digestion.  Back in the day I made a mixing bowl each morning and had to finish it before bed.  ~3000 calories plus what I ate during the day.  I just had everyone "pull my finger" all the time to make room.