Charley Horse - Muscle Cramps

Charley Horse, otherwise known as muscle spasm or cramp, is a painful involuntary muscle contraction that doesn't relax for several seconds or more. In other words, the muscles become hard, stiff, and sore.I think almost everyone experiences muscle spasm, at any age, and occurring any time of the day. It can occur in any muscles, but they are most common in the calf and foot. Muscle spasm also occurs in the thigh, the hands, arms, abdomen, and on muscles in the rib cage area. Normally, spasm usually not prolonged or recurring, but if it continues to persist, better see your doctor to determine the cause and implement appropriate treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors:

Muscle injuries as a result of bruise or contusion
Muscle fatigue
Performing an exercise in excessive heat or cold
A strenuous exercise or overuse of a specific muscle during exercise particularly the calf muscles among athletes.
Stress plays a part and is most often in the neck muscles.
Not having or insufficient stretching prior to actual exercise or activities.
Inadequate blood flow to the leg muscles
Pinched nerve from compression injury of the spine
Side effects to an individual on diuretics may lead to low potassium levels
Deficiency with potassium, calcium, and sodium in blood
Deficiency with calcium to a pregnant woman, a common complaint.
Obesity
Smokers
Older adults and infants

Remedies and Prevention:

Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.Water alone is not sufficient. Sports drink will help replenish lost minerals.
Heating pads will promote muscle relaxation
Ice pack to follow later on to manage pain
Nonsteroidal Anti-iflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS), like ibuprofen, given if the pain continues to persist
Antispasmodic drugs may be given in severe cases
Nerve irritation may require surgery and physical therapy
Massaging or stretching the foot, ankle or knee in the opposite direction of the spasm may relieve pain.
Eat a well-balanced diet, rich in potassium and calcium
Stretching before and after exercise
Stretching before bedtime will also help
Do not overdo an exercise to the point of fatigue