* Charley Horses are muscle cramps or spasms, typically occurring in the lower leg
* To help fight this pain and discomfort, try one of these seven remedies
* You can employ them all from the comfort of your own home
The origins of the phrase “Charley Horse” are elusive, however the pervasive theory is that its namesake is a major league baseball pitcher who rose to prominence in the 1880s, Charles “Old Hoss” Radbourn, who suffered from frequent leg cramps. Another theory is that it comes from a lame horse named Charley that pulled the roller at the Chicago White Sox ballpark. Whatever the source may be, the term refers to a cramping or tightening that typically happens in the lower leg. The shocking pain and spasm can be brief, or it can persist for up to ten minutes. There are a variety of things that can cause Charley Horses, varying from inadequate blood flow to mineral deficiency. While they are quite a common ailment, they can bring on intense pain and discomfort. We’ve rounded up seven at-home treatment methods that should work to alleviate Charley Horses, and prevent them from coming back.
1. Leg Cramp Tablets by Hyland’s
These fast-dissolving tablets melt in your mouth, so you don’t need to worry about having water on hand, and you can experience a quick relief to your leg cramps or joint stiffness. The tablets are composed of a homeopathic formula, and do not contain Aspirin, Acetaminophen, or Ibuprofen. Each container holds 100 tablets, which will can last you for over 50 doses.
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2. Theraworx Relief Fast-Acting Foam for Leg Cramps
This foam spray from Theraworx is fast-absorbing and lightly scented, fighting cramps, charley horses and muscle fatigue brought on by restless leg syndrome. Simply massage up to four pumps of foam onto your thigh, calf, hamstring or foot area, and enjoy the gentle, natural relief brought on by ingredients like aloe, grapefruit extract and Vitamin E.
3. High Absorption Magnesium for Leg Cramps and Sore Muscles
Among other benefits, Magnesium is known to help combat leg cramps by promoting blood flow and energy creation. MgSport is not only an effective, fast-acting source of Magnesium, but it also come in an all-veggie capsule, that’s gluten and dairy free. It won’t only be your leg that’s feeling better, as a portion of every purchase will be donated to a non-profit that helps provide access to safe and clean water in developing nations.
4. Caleb Treeze Organic Farms Stops Leg & Foot Cramps
This natural remedy has old-school Amish roots, and features no extra chemicals or additives, just apple cider vinegar, ginger plant juice and garlic juice. Salt and gluten-free, this is an especially effective recipe for night cramps, as it’s long-lasting.
5. Leg Cramp Relief Spray
If you prefer spray treatments, this bottle contains a refreshing blend of cypress, sweet marjoram and peppermint, providing a natural relief, as well a beneficial coating of pure magnesium oil. It’s estimated that over sixty percent of Americans suffer from a magnesium deficiency, of which one of the effects is leg cramps.
6. Calf Compression Sleeve
This compression sleeve works to increase blood flow at a graduated compression strength of 20-25mmHg, providing relief without risking your health. It works to alleviate swelling, pain and cramps, and you can choose the right frequency to suit your needs, wearing them overnight, or only while you’re working out. The material is breathable, so you won’t be overheating while wearing it either.
7. Muscle Roller Leg Massager
Give yourself an at-home deep tissue massage with this thermoplastic roller stick, which is outfitted with ergonomic handles for easy, comfortable use. When regularly used, this leg massager helps combat the build up of lactic acid that can trigger cramps. Employ it after an intense workout or hike, or even just a long day at work, and have a restful night’s sleep, uninterrupted by screaming muscle cramps.