Charlie Horse: After Joe's 100 mile National Ultra Endurance bike race in 2019
“Charlie Horse” by Joseph A. Stroz, DPT, CSCS
A “Charlie Horse” is a term used by many in the non-medical field to describe an abrupt, intense muscle cramp. Most commonly occurring in the muscles of the thigh and lower leg but can occur to any skeletal muscle in the body. Most often people will immediately think that the cause is due to inefficient electrolytes, such as low potassium or magnesium, but this is rarely the cause.
It is in fact possible for a cramp such as this to occur with an imbalance of electrolytes in our body, but this is seen in very nutrient deficient diets, which is rare in an average American diet. A high loss of electrolytes can cause cramping when people engage in more intense activities such as an athlete performing an intense athletic event like long distance running or biking, especially in hot climates from profuse sweating.
Most commonly, a “Charlie horse” cramp in a muscle occurs when that muscle has a quick or abrupt contraction, where there is a change in the tendon length (tendons stretch muscle to bones) causing a nerve receptor (muscle spindle) in the tendon to trigger an involuntary muscle contraction, most times to an opposing muscle group, as a means to protect the tendon from injury. These quick contractions, although are uncomfortable, are benign, and not harmful. Many people may feel this occur when they stretch or move in bed abruptly, or when they get into a position that is not common to them. Most times this occurs to less active people, of whom rarely expose their joints to deeper ranges of motion, and/or more intense muscle contractions, like with formal exercise. Simply engaging in more consistent stretching and strength exercises as part of a weekly routine can help reduce the occurrence of “Charlie horse” cramps from occurring.
If you or a loved one is experiencing muscle cramping on a more regular basis and would like to learn some simple exercises to reduce these, contact our clinic to schedule an appointment with one of our physical therapists.
Have a healthy week!
Joseph A. Stroz, DPT, CSCS
*This is in no way a substitute for your physician's care, nor is it meant to replace your physician's advice. Always consult your physician when noticing any changes in your health and prior to any new activity.