Executive Chiropractic of Iowa 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 encountered the charley horse. This colorful name is thought 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 last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, with soreness that can hang on for hours or even days. About one-third of adults over 50 have them. Most charley horses have no obvious cause, though 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 Executive Chiropractic of Iowa share some more ideas about these.

When a cramp strikes, a gentle stretch is your best ally. If the cramp is in your calf, straighten your knee and point your foot up toward your knee, and if your toes curl, draw them back in the opposite direction. Getting out of bed and taking a short walk can help the muscle let go, and plenty of people get 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, drink plenty of fluids, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day, leave your bed sheets loose at the foot of the bed, and cut back 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 run low, muscles can tighten too readily, 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 high in 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 shown 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. Get prompt care if a cramp is severe, won’t go away, 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 holding you back, 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 detailed exam can help sort out what’s going on. Our practice will make time to listen, evaluate how your spine, muscles, and daily habits work together, and design a plan that helps you move and rest more comfortably. 

Tune in to this PODCAST with Dr. Kurt Olding on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he describes 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, reach out to Executive Chiropractic of Iowa in West Des Moines today to make an appointment, and let’s work together to send those charley horses packing.