Charley Horse
A charley horse is the common name for a muscle spasm, particularly in the leg. Muscle spasm can occur in any muscle in the body. When a muscle is in spasm, it contracts involuntarily and does not relax.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Muscle spasm commonly occur when a muscle is over-used or injured. Working out when dehydrated or with low levels of potassium can also predispose a person to muscle spasm.
Some spasms occur because the nerve that connects to a muscle is irritated. The classic example is a herniated disk irritating spinal nerves as they exit the back, causing pain and spasm.
Spasms in the calf commonly occur while kicking during swimming and can also occur at night while in bed. Upper leg spasms are more common with running or jumping activities. Spasm in the cervical spine (neck) can be a sign of stress.
Symptoms
When a muscle goes into spasm it feels very tight and is sometimes described as a knot. The pain can be severe and debilitating.
Treatment
At the first sign of a muscle spasm, stop your activity and try stretching and massaging the affected muscle. Heat will relax the muscle at first, although ice may be helpful after the initial spasm and pain has improved. If the muscle continues to be sore, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may help with pain. In more severe cases, your health care provider may prescribe anti-spasm medications.
After initial treatment, the cause of the spasm should be determined to prevent it from recurring. If an irritated nerve is involved, physical therapy or even surgery may be necessary.
The most common cause of muscle cramps associated with sports activity is dehydration. Often, rehydration with water or sports drinks will resolve the cramping.
Prevention
- Stretch to improve flexibility.
- Modify your workouts to exercise within your capabilities.
- Drink plenty of fluids while exercising and increase your potassium intake (orange juice and bananas are great sources of potassium).
Credit: National Institute of Health.