LEG CRAMP, “CHARLEY HORSE”
A leg cramp is an involuntary contraction or spasm of a muscle in the leg or foot. Cramps most commonly occur at night, when the limbs are cool, particularly after the day of unusual exertion, and more frequently in the elderly, the young, and persons with arteriosclerosis. These cramps seem to be caused by unnatural positions which impair the blood supply to the lower extremities, causing the muscles to abnormally contract, thus bringing about cramps. A cramp usually lasts only a few seconds or minutes. If a cramp occurs while a person is walking, it may be a signal of seriously impaired circulation, but a cramp that occurs while a person is resting does not indicate this severity. Patients most susceptible to repeated leg cramps are those with advanced arteriosclerosis.
Leg cramps may signify a variety of nutritional deficiencies. The most common is lack of calcium, which is necessary for normal muscle contraction. Other deficiencies indicated are thiamine, pantothenic acid, biotin, and magnesium. Occasionally a sodium loss, such as occurs in heavy perspiration or diarrhea, may result in muscle cramps. A vitamin C deficiency also can be responsible for pains in the muscles and joints. Prevention and treatment of leg cramps should include an adequate diet containing sufficient amounts of these nutrients.
A “charley horse” is a pulled and bruised muscle that results in soreness and stiffness. It is usually caused by a blow or a forceful stretch of the leg during athletic activity. A person who has suffered a charley horse should have a high intake of protein to rebuild damaged tissues
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Information obtained from Nutrition Almanac, Third Edition
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