Trouble walking on concrete?

I do have an appointment with a neurologist, but not for a few weeks.

Just wondering if you have any problem with walking on concrete or other hard surfaces? When I visit a local fair and walk (maybe around 8 blocks) on the sidewalk, I'm a bit stiff afterwards, especially my legs/feet. But I really "pay" overnight after I go to bed and wake up with leg and sometimes toe cramps and more stiffness.

I do take Flexeril, but it seems to make me more sleepy than anything. Also, I invest in good, supportive shoes, so I know that's not the problem. I'm not one to sit all day, my weight is good, and I do stretching exercises daily. I keep as active as I can.

I have a very high foot arch, and had specially-made orthotics made (twice), but I can no longer wear either, because the materials are too hard for my (very inflexible) feet.

However, I do wear things inside my shoes which help slightly, such as soft orthotic inserts, shoe liners, and sometimes, elastic bands which support the arch. They really don't help much anymore, however, either alone or used together.

Well-intentioned people sometimes tell me I should walk MORE on concrete and it would help the problem, but I've found it only makes it worse.

Getting around in big stores like Wal-Mart is becoming a problem. I do think I have to continue to push myself to walk at least a little on hard surfaces like this, but definitely can't tolerate it for long.

Does anyone else have this problem? I feel like I've tried every solution I can think of, but nothing really helps. I would guess it's nerve-related, and I don't want to cause further damage, if there is any.

I'll definitely bring this up to the neurologist, but would appreciate any insight. Thanks!

Hi Snoopy: Thanks for your reply.

I have a relative who has MS, which sounds similar to your walking issues (worse on uneven or soft surfaces, etc.).

Interesting that you should mention the stiffness helps support you. I think that's where I'm at. I used to be occasionally stiff; would come and go, but now, I seem to have stiff legs all the time. And for a day or two after walking (too much) on concrete, in a Wal-Mart or other big store, etc., wow---are my leg muscles tight and hard! They make me look like a (very) long-distance runner. One small plus, LOL!

I broke down and took a Flexeril yesterday, and small dose of Neurontin. They certainly helped, but so dislike the sleepy effects. Still, today, I'm quite a bit better, so the roller coaster ride continues.

Thanks again for you input. I hope you have a great weekend ahead! :)