A charley horse is often due to long exercise or physical labor, especially in the heat. Dehydration, age, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions may increase the risk of charley horse.
A charley horse is harmless but can be very painful. It often awakens a person during the night.
Massage can relieve cramping pain. Stretches and hydration during exercise or work can prevent a charley horse.
OVERVIEW
SYMPTOMS
DIAGNOSIS
AREAS
TREATMENT
PRODUCTS(T)
A sudden, involuntary contraction of one or more muscles (cramp), often in the legs.
- muscle cramps
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others.
Common
< 0
Cases per year
More than 200,000 US cases per year
Usually self-treatable
Usually self-diagnosable
Lab tests or imaging not required
Short-term: resolves within days to weeks
IN DEPTH...
Areas(T)