Looking for some insight on new shin tightness / cramping since adding Primo

BuffMaltese

New Member
I’m hoping someone here has run into something similar.

Background: I’m 48, very active, long history of lifting and conditioning. I’m in good cardiovascular shape. Historically I could run or walk fast without any lower leg issues at all, even when I was out of shape years ago.

Current cycle (first real blast):

– Test C 350 mg/week

– Primo 200 mg/week (this is the only recent new compound)

– NPP 150 mg/week

– HGH 3 IU/day

Previously: 150mg test, 70-100mg NPP, 3iu HGH

About 2–3 weeks into full doses (first added lower dose of Primo around 4-5 weeks ago) I started developing a weird tightness / cramping sensation in my shins and anterior lower legs. First came on when I tried to jog after about 7 minutes. Tried 12 degree, 3mph incline walking on a subsequent session and same thing occurred. Then a few days ago I was walking fast in the mall and the same thing occurred. Now today I was doing a workout and just sat in a body weight squat to stretch and the same sensation started happening.


– Feels like extreme tightness or impending cramp in the tibialis / shin area

– Cardiovascularly I’m totally fine, breathing and heart rate are normal

– This never happened to me before, even when I used to run while out of shape

No swelling, redness, or focal pain. Just severe tightness / fatigue in the shins that comes on fast.

Things I’m wondering about:

– Electrolytes or mineral imbalance (magnesium, potassium, sodium?)

– Primo causing something vascular or electrolyte related

– Blood thickness / hematocrit issues

– Something like exertional compartment syndrome triggered by AAS

Has anyone experienced shin cramping or anterior lower leg tightness like this on cycle, especially with Primo?

Any ideas what labs I should check (CBC, ferritin, electrolytes, CK, etc.) or things to try?

Appreciate any insight. This one has me scratching my head.
 
Last edited:
Estrogen in men is involved in:

1. Electrolyte balance & muscle function​

  • Regulates calcium handling in muscle cells
  • Affects magnesium and sodium balance
  • Low E2 → muscles become more excitable → cramping and spasms

2. Muscle hydration​

  • Estrogen helps maintain intracellular water
  • Low E2 → “dry” muscle tissue → tighter, cramp-prone muscles

3. Blood flow​

  • Estrogen improves nitric oxide production
  • Low E2 → poorer perfusion → cramps during or after exertion

How it typically presents​

Low-E2 cramps are often:

  • New or worsening on cycle
  • Worse at night or post-training
  • Accompanied by:
    • Joint stiffness or pain
    • Flat pumps
    • Reduced endurance
    • Low libido or muted orgasm
    • “Dry” feeling overall
Many people first notice:

calves, hamstrings, feet, or forearms cramping
 
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