Chiropractic Spine Sports And Rehabilitation on Charley Horses: Why They Happen and How to Find Relief

So what is a Charley Horse? Have you ever woken with a start as a calf muscle suddenly seized into a hard, painful knot? Then you’ve met the charley horse. The name is believed to come from an old horse named Charley who pulled a roller across the Chicago White Sox ballpark in the 1890s and walked with stiff, aching muscles. (1) What a story! These abrupt, involuntary muscle contractions most often affect the calf or foot, commonly at night, and can persist anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, with soreness that can linger for hours or even days. About one-third of adults over 50 experience them. Most charley horses have no single identifiable cause, although dehydration, diuretics and certain other medications, pregnancy, strenuous exercise, and long hours standing on hard floors can make them more common. (1) Read on as we at Chiropractic Spine Sports And Rehabilitation share some more ideas about these.

When a cramp hits, a gentle stretch is your best ally. For a calf cramp, straighten your knee and point your foot up toward your knee, and if your toes curl, stretch them back in the opposite direction. Getting out of bed and walking around can help the muscle release, and lots of folks find relief with massage or warmth from a warm shower or compress. (1)

A few simple habits can help keep charley horses away. Stretch your calves and hamstrings at bedtime, stay well hydrated, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, leave your bed sheets loose at the foot of the bed, and go easy on alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, and decongestants. (1) It also pays to eat with your muscles in mind. Magnesium helps muscles relax after they contract, and when levels run low, muscles can tighten too easily, paving the way for cramps and spasms. (2) Our magnesium levels typically decline as we age, and nearly two-thirds of Americans come up short on the recommended intake, so foods high in magnesium and potassium, like leafy greens, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains, avocado, and bananas, are healthy additions to your plate. (1,2) Studies of magnesium supplements for night cramps have produced mixed results, so ask your provider before adding one to your routine. (2) If you have heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease, consult your doctor before adjusting your diet or fluid intake. Seek prompt care if a cramp is severe, persists, or comes with sudden numbness, weakness, skin color changes, or a limb that feels cold. (1) We can talk more at your next appointment.

If charley horses keep cutting into your sleep or slowing you down, you don’t have to simply live with them. Spine problems that compress the nerves running to the legs are among the conditions linked to leg cramps (1), and a careful exam can help sort out what’s going on. Our team will take the time to listen, evaluate how your spine, muscles, and daily habits work together, and create a plan that helps you move and rest more comfortably. 

Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. Kurt Olding on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he explains the relief that’s possible for a patient with spinal stenosis with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management, the gentle, safe treatment we offer. After that, contact Chiropractic Spine Sports And Rehabilitation in Tonawanda today to make an appointment, and let’s work together to send those charley horses packing.