Understanding and Managing Night time Charley Horses

Understanding and Managing Nighttime Charley Horses

Charley horses—those sudden, painful muscle cramps that strike at night—can be unsettling and uncomfortable. They usually affect the legs, especially the calves, and while generally harmless, frequent charley horses can disrupt sleep and daily activities. Here, we’ll explore what causes them, how to prevent them, and the best ways to manage them.

What Are Charley Horses?

A charley horse is an involuntary muscle cramp or spasm, often in the calves. These cramps can be brief or last several minutes, causing sharp pain and temporary immobility. Although they can occur during activity, charley horses often strike at rest, especially during sleep, leading to discomfort and sleep disturbances.

Common Causes

Charley horses can result from various factors:

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance (potassium, magnesium, calcium)

Overexertion or prolonged physical activity

Poor circulation or nerve compression

Certain medications and lack of stretching

Pregnancy and aging, as these can alter muscle elasticity and increase susceptibility

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