Charlie Horses?
Question:
Is there a cause for Charlie horses? Can they do any permanent damage?
Answers:
What is a Charlie Horse?
The term "Charlie Horse" refers to any cramp where a muscle is locked in a contracted position. This most commonly seems to happen in the leg, particularly the calf area. However, it is not limited to this area. It is also known to happen in the neck and chin, among other places.
What causes a Charlie Horse?
A charlie horse can be a symptom for many different things. It can be caused by deficiencies of such things as magnesium or potassium. You can even also get a charlie horse by being struck suddenly.
What can I do if I get a charlie horse?
One of the ways you can best get rid of the charlie horse, is to stretch the muscle that is cramping. If it is in your calf, try pointing your toes up as high as you can.
Frequent Cramping
Getting charlie horses is usually not a major problem, but in some cases can be a sign of serious medical issues. If you experience charlie horses regularly you should probably go to the doctor as soon as possible to just make sure you don't have any underlying issues.
I used to get them a lot, but my doctor told me to take 50 mg of benadryl at bedtime so I did and my charlie horses went away and I haven't had them in a long long time. The benadryl is to be taken every night for about a year. Another thing is you might be low in potassium - so eat a banana every day as they are high in potassium. You also could be low in calcium - so take an Os Cal pill every day. Good luck!
my mom gets them a lot and the doctor told her to eat bananas. i think for the potassium.
I don't know about the causes, but try a plain bar of ivory soap, under the sheets by your feet at night while sleeping. I have read this is a cheap true remedy for leg cramps.
You are probably deficient in potassium, calcium, magnesium and Vitamin B6.
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