Why do I get Charlie horses in my calf muscle at night?

Answer 1

It could be lack of water, lack of potassium...or muscle injury...usually, make sure you're hydrated and drink plenty of water and what I like to do is drink watered down gator aide...and also take postassium tablets to be sure...ususally, it is because of not enough water...eat some banannas, and if it continues. go to the health food store, and buy some Arnica Montana, 6x....which is for bruising and cramping and works great!

Answer 2

i had the same problem. you arent getting enough potassium and water. eat bananas and other foods rich in potassium, and drink a lot of water. if the charlie horses persist, let your doctor know; there could be an underlying factor then.

Answer 3

Early indicator of sciatica (pinched nerve , usually in lower back) . As the nerve pinches (often from laying on the curve of the lower spine) downstream muscles are affected. Charlie horses , then stabbing in the hip joints and sometimes feeling like the bones in the arches of the feet are broken . The sciatic nerve runs down your back, divides across your rear hips, down the back legs to the heel & foot.
An MRI could help identify the location of the actual injury.
Check:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sciatica and

http://www.medicinenet.com/sciatica/index.htm

Answer 4

You need Potassium! eat bananas or just an every day multi-vitamin will do the trick. Try it out.

Answer 5

It could be a sign of poor circulation. A daily dose of vitamin E,at the daily recommended dosage, with continued consumption should take care of your problem.

Answer 6

try 3 things: drink more water. eat more potassium (bananas are a good source). stretch a few times a day and before bed.

Answer 7

well, I got them when I was pregnant, but seeing as how you are a man, I'm guessing that is not the cause. Try munching on more bananas...that potassium boost should help!

Answer 8

You need more potassium in your diet. you can get them otc or simply eat some bananas. The lack of potassium causes cramping, try it you'll get results.

Answer 9

It is caused by a vitamin/mineral deficiency. I believe possibly calcium. I used to get them many years ago. and researched it. When I started taking a multi vitamin/mineral supplement every day, they stopped.

Answer 10

Boy, those aren't fun!

You probably have a vitamin deficiency, either potassium or B-Complex.

I hope this helps!