Charlie Horses is the name given to muscle spasm experienced by an individual, especially in the leg. The most probable area where Charlie horse strikes is the calf region and that too, at night. In case of such a spasm, the concerned muscle contracts and cramps, without any slightest indication beforehand. The spasm is very painful and locks the particular muscle in a contracted position. The pain experienced during Charley horses is so sudden and intense that you lose complete control over the muscle and find it next to impossible to use it.
What Causes Charlie Horses
Often people have been found wondering that why do you get Charley horse i.e. what are the reasons behind its occurrence. In the following lines, we have tried to provide an answer for the same.
- In most of the cases, Charlie horses are the late responses of straining a muscle during exercise, or otherwise.
- Charley horse might be the result of an electrolyte or mineral imbalance in the body.
- In some of the cases, Charlie horses have been found to be a signal of the onset of a vascular disease.
- At times, kidney dialysis has lead to the occurrence of Charley horse in the muscles.
- Low levels of minerals, such as potassium or calcium, in the body can be one of the reasons for Charlie horses.
- Low level of liquids in the body, while exercising, might be a probable cause of Charley horse.
- Some spasms, especially in the neck area, might be the result of taking too much stress.
- Charley horses in the upper leg are mainly caused by activities like running or jumping.
- Some of the spasms occur because of the irritation of the nerve that connects to a muscle.
- The most common type of Charley horse, found in the calf region, is often the result of kicking while swimming.
