Cox Chiropractic Medicine Inc on Charley Horses: Why They Happen and How to Find Relief

So what is a Charley Horse? Has a calf muscle ever jolted you awake by suddenly locking into a hard, painful knot? Then you’ve been introduced to the charley horse. This colorful name is thought to originate with 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 usually target the calf or foot, often at night, and can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, with soreness that may stick around for hours or even days. About one-third of adults over 50 have them. Most charley horses have no clear cause, although dehydration, diuretics and certain other medications, pregnancy, strenuous exercise, and long hours standing on hard floors can make them more frequent. (1) Read on as we at Cox Chiropractic Medicine Inc share some more ideas about these.

When a cramp hits, a slow stretch is your best friend. If the cramp is in your calf, 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 taking a short walk can help the muscle relax, and lots of folks feel better with massage or warmth from a warm shower or compress. (1)

Some easy daily habits can help keep charley horses from coming back. Stretch your calves and hamstrings before you turn in, drink plenty of fluids, work toward at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day, keep your bed sheets loose at the foot of the bed, and go easy on alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, and decongestants. (1) What you eat can make a difference, too. Magnesium helps muscles relax after they contract, and when levels fall short, muscles can tighten too easily, paving the way for cramps and spasms. (2) Our magnesium levels tend to drop as we age, and nearly two-thirds of Americans don’t meet the recommended intake, so foods packed with magnesium and potassium, like leafy greens, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains, avocado, and bananas, are smart 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, talk to 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 getting in your way, you don’t have to grin and bear it. Spine problems that compress the nerves running to the legs are among the conditions linked to leg cramps (1), and a thorough exam can help figure out the cause. Our team will make time to listen, evaluate how your spine, muscles, and daily habits connect, and create a plan that helps you move and rest with greater ease. 

Check out this PODCAST with Dr. Kurt Olding on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates 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. Afterward, contact Cox Chiropractic Medicine Inc in Fort Wayne today to make an appointment, and let’s team up to send those charley horses packing.