Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 5/11/2010

Question
Hello, I recently had a day surgery procedure where they removed a large fibroid from my uterus which I was put to sleep under anaesthetic. Since the surgery my legs, especially the muscles on the front of my calves have been extremely tight and painful, I do train for 2 to 3 hours daily which includes running, cardio exercises and bike riding, I thought it may be because I hadn't trained for 3 days although the soreness was debilitating and my breathing was abnormal exercising as well, could it be the anaesthetic which affected me this much?

Answer
It is possible that you were given a relaxant called suxamethonium which can cause severe muscle pains especially in fit young people. The other possibility is that the position you were in for the procedure strained your muscles. Finally depending on how long the procedure took e.g. if it took longer than 30 minutes then there might have been a problem with the position you were in and the blood flow to the muscles concerned. This is unlikely scenario but I include it as it is just possible. I think the relaxant is most likely and if the discomfort settles over a few days then that was probably it. If it takes longer then suggest you speak to hospital. Paracetamol and simple ibuprofen should help.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson