What causes a charley horse in your leg?

Overuse of a muscle, dehydration, muscle strain or simply holding a position for a prolonged period can cause a muscle cramp. In many cases, however, the cause isn’t known. Although most muscle cramps are harmless, some may be related to an underlying medical condition, such as: Inadequate blood supply.

How do you stop leg cramps fast?

If you have a cramp, these actions may provide relief:

1. Stretch and massage. Stretch the cramped muscle and gently rub it to help it relax. For a calf cramp, put your weight on your cramped leg and bend your knee slightly. …
2. Apply heat or cold. Use a warm towel or heating pad on tense or tight muscles.

What causes a charley horse in your inner thigh?

Some of the other causes include: Dehydration or low amounts of potassium, sodium, calcium, or magnesium. Certain medications you’re taking. Muscle fatigue or strain from overuse, too much exercise, or holding a muscle in the same position for a long time.

Can a charley horse hurt for days?

These spasms are marked by uncomfortable muscle contractions. If the contracting muscles don’t relax for several seconds or more, the pain can be severe. Severe charley horses can result in muscle soreness that lasts anywhere from a few hours to a day. This is normal, so long as the pain isn’t prolonged or recurring.

Can a charley horse be a sign of a blood clot?

A DVT blood clot can cause a calf cramp that feels a lot like a charley horse. Like leg pain, the cramping sensation with DVT will persist and even worsen with time. It won’t clear up with stretching or walking it off like an ordinary charley horse.

What is the best vitamin for leg cramps?

Magnesium is a widely used remedy for leg cramps.

What causes leg cramps in bed?

abnormal nerve activity during sleep which causes the muscle of the leg to cramp. excessive strain placed on leg muscles, such as when exercising, may cause the muscles to cramp at certain times. a sudden restriction in the blood supply to the affected muscles.

What can I drink for leg cramps?

Drink plenty of fluids. Sports drinks, such as Gatorade, will often help leg cramps.

What do you do for a charlie horse in your thigh?

Massage, a bath with Epsom salts, or a heating pad can relax the muscle. To fight pain, use an ice pack or take an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or naproxen. In most cases, the charley horse will stop within a few minutes. But if you get them often and for no clear reason, tell your doctor.

Why do I get Charlie horses?

A charley horse can be caused by a direct blow or sudden stretch of the muscle, but most of the time they’re caused by strain or fatigue during exercise.

How do you stop a Charlie horse at night?

Nocturnal Leg Cramp Prevention

1. Stretch during the day and before bed. Focus on your calf and foot muscles.
2. Drink plenty of water.
3. Move around during the day to exercise your feet and legs.
4. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes.
5. Sleep under loose covers, especially if you sleep on your back.

When should I be concerned about leg pain?

See your doctor as soon as possible if you have:

Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth or tenderness, or you have a fever greater than100 F (37.8 C) A leg that is swollen, pale or unusually cool. Calf pain, particularly after prolonged sitting, such as on a long car trip or plane ride.