CHARLEY HORSE: MUSCLE CRAMPS

A muscle cramp is often called a charley horse. It is an uncontrolled contraction of the muscle and may produce intense pain. Muscle cramps can develop in any muscle in the body although they most often occur in the calf or foot. Muscle cramps usually happen while lying in bed or playing sports or exercising. Overuse, injury, muscle strain, or staying in the same position for a long time can produce cramping.

Night time calf cramps usually strike a person when in bed. It is possible that the day's activities such as a tough workout, wearing high heels, or taking some drugs, such as diuretics, may spark the cramp. Pointing the toes sharply can instantly cause cramping.

Cramps during exercise can be prompted by a number of factors. Dehydration or sweating too much can create an imbalance of potassium and sodium in the blood. Overexertion or muscle fatigue are also common causes.

For relief of a muscle cramp try any of the following:

stretch the muscle (For example, if the calf muscle is cramped, straighten the leg and pull the toes upward toward the front of the knee.)
massage the muscle to relax it
apply a cold pack to reduce the blood flow and relax the muscle
take a hot bath or
use a heating pad

To prevent muscle cramps:

do stretching exercises before and after workouts
stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
drink water or a sports drink if the cramp attacks during a workout
do not over-fatigue muscles and
do not point your toes while stretching or sleeping

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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