Charley horses, also known as muscle cramps, are sudden, involuntary, and often painful contractions of muscles, most commonly occurring in the legs, especially the calf muscle. The causes of charley horses are varied and can include:
- Dehydration : Not having enough fluids can trigger muscle cramps.
- Electrolyte imbalances : Low levels of minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium in the blood can contribute to cramps, though evidence is sometimes mixed.
- Muscle overuse or injury : Exercising a muscle too much or straining it can cause cramps.
- Poor blood flow : Inadequate circulation to the muscles may lead to cramping.
- Holding a position for a long time : Sitting or lying down without moving can provoke cramps.
- Nerve irritation or compression : Conditions like spinal nerve compression or pinched nerves can cause muscle spasms.
- Certain medications : Some drugs, including diuretics, statins, and asthma medications, can cause cramps as a side effect.
- Other factors : Hormonal imbalances, pregnancy (especially in the third trimester), stress, poor posture, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or neurological disorders can increase the risk of charley horses.
Charley horses often occur during or after physical activity but can also happen at rest or during sleep
. Relief typically comes from stretching or massaging the affected muscle and standing up to counteract the muscle-tightening signals
