Charley horses, those sudden and painful muscle cramps that often strike without warning

Charley horses, those sudden and painful muscle cramps that often strike without warning, can be both alarming and incredibly uncomfortable. These involuntary muscle contractions most commonly occur in the legs, particularly the calves, and can affect anyone regardless of age or fitness level. While they are generally harmless, frequent or severe charley horses can significantly disrupt daily activities and quality of life. In this article, we will delve into what charley horses are, why they happen, and what you can do to prevent and treat them effectively.

The term ‘charley horse’ is often used to describe muscle cramps or spasms, particularly in the calves. Scientifically, these cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles. They are usually brief but can sometimes last several minutes, causing intense pain and temporary immobility. While charley horses can occur during physical activity, they are also common during rest, particularly at night, leading to disrupted sleep and discomfort.