Charley Horse

What Is a Charley Horse?

A charley horse, also sometimes spelled charlie horse, is the common name for a muscle spasm or cramp, most often felt in the calf, thigh or foot. It feels like a sharp, tightening pain that strikes suddenly and can last a few seconds or even several minutes.

These cramps can occur during or after exercise, at night while you’re asleep or even while sitting or standing still. While they can be painful, they are usually not dangerous. However, frequent or severe cramps could indicate a more serious issue and should be discussed with a health care provider.

What Causes a Charley Horse?

Muscle cramps happen when a muscle contracts on its own and doesn't relax right away. This involuntary tightening can be caused by:

• Dehydration – not drinking enough water
• Low electrolytes – especially potassium, magnesium or calcium
• Overuse or muscle fatigue – common during or after workouts
• Poor circulation – especially in the legs
• Sitting or standing too long – especially in one position
• Sleeping positions – that put pressure on the legs
  
  

Other possible causes include nerve compression, medication side effects or medical conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues. Pregnant women may also experience more leg cramps due to changes in blood flow and pressure on nerves.

Charley horses most often affect the lower body, especially:

• Calves
• Thighs
• Hamstrings
• Feet
• Toes
  
  

They can also occur in the arms or abdomen, but this is less common.

How Are Charley Horses Diagnosed?

In most cases, a health care provider can figure out what's going on just by asking about your symptoms and medical history. If cramps happen often or are severe, your provider might:

• Check your hydration and electrolyte levels
• Review your medications
• Order blood tests to look for issues like vitamin deficiencies or nerve disorders
• Suggest imaging, like an ultrasound, to check blood flow

What to Do When a Cramp Strikes

If you're dealing with a charley horse, try the following:

• Stretch the muscle gently – For calf cramps, try pulling your toes upward toward your shin.
• Massage the area – Rubbing the muscle can help it relax.
• Apply heat or cold – Use a warm towel or heating pad after the cramp, or ice to reduce any soreness.
• Walk it out – Light activity may help loosen tight muscles.
  
  

If the cramp is from exercise, make sure to cool down properly and stay hydrated.

Preventing Charley Horses

Good news: most muscle cramps can be prevented with a few simple habits.

Tips to Help Prevent Muscle Cramps

• Stay hydrated– Drink water throughout the day, especially before and after exercise.
• Stretch regularly – Especially before bed or workouts.
• Eat a balanced diet – Include foods rich in potassium (bananas, sweet potatoes), magnesium (nuts, leafy greens), and calcium (dairy, fortified plant milk).
• Wear proper footwear – Supportive shoes can help reduce leg strain.
• Avoid sitting or standing too long – Take breaks to move around if you're at a desk or on your feet all day.
  
  

If you’re on medications like diuretics or have health conditions that affect your nerves or blood flow, talk with your doctor about managing your risk.

When to See a Health Care Provider

Most charley horses go away on their own. But you should call your provider if:

• Cramps happen frequently
• They are severe or last more than a few minutes
• You have leg swelling, redness, or muscle weakness
• They interrupt your sleep regularly
  
  

Your provider can help determine if there’s an underlying cause and suggest treatment options.

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If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

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Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.

If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368