Charley horse

Updated: 2023-07-29

Description

A sudden, unexpected tightening of one or more muscles, often in the legs. A charley horse is another name for a muscle cramp.

Overview

A charley horse is often due to long exercise or physical labor, especially in the heat. Dehydration, age, pregnancy, and certain medicines and illnesses also might cause muscle cramps.

Symptoms

A charley horse is harmless but can be very painful. It often awakens a person during the night. Muscle cramps happen mostly in leg muscles, most often in the calf. After the cramp eases, the area might be sore for hours or days.

Treatments

Self-care measures can treat most muscle cramps. Massage the area to relieve cramping pain. Stretch and stay hydrated during exercise or work to help prevent a charley horse.