High heels are among the things that can cause a charley horse.
A charley horse (or charlie horse) is a painful muscle cramp or spasm that typically afflicts the thighs, upper legs, calves and feet. A charley horse can occur because of dehydration, mineral deficiency or muscle fatigue. The most immediate symptoms include swelling, muscle spasms, tenderness and pain. This is a common injury in contact sports, since it caused by impact force. A charley horse usually heals fully within a few days to a month. Ice and compression can help the process.
Instructions
1. Pack the affected area with ice. Bend the leg at the knee and apply ice to the affected area for a 24-hour period.
2. Add compression to the affected area if swelling occurs. Use a compression bandage or compression sock (available at your local pharmacy).
3. Elevate your leg if the pain continues. Prop the leg above the heart area using a set of pillows. Keep your leg in a fully bent position.
4. Take 400 units of vitamin E if you have a chronic nightly charley horse. Speak to a doctor about taking prescription anti-steroidal or non-inflammatory and anti-spasm medications, which may reduce pain from chronic charley horses.
5. Gently massage your thighs, legs, calves and feet regularly, especially after strenuous exercise.
6. Add pain-free stretching. Sit on the floor with your legs in front of your body. With your legs on the floor, stretch forward for 30 seconds. Repeat if you are comfortable doing so.
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