Leg cramps, often referred to as a “charley horse,” are involuntary muscle contractions that typically occur in the calves. While voluntary muscles are controlled by your brain (like lifting groceries), involuntary contractions occur without conscious control.

These cramps can range from mild annoyance to severe pain that restricts movement. Although usually temporary and harmless, frequent cramping can be a sign of underlying vascular issues. A typical cramp may last around 9 minutes, causing the muscle to harden or form a visible lump.

Common Symptoms

If you are experiencing the following, you are likely suffering from a muscle cramp:

• Sudden, intense pain or discomfort in the leg.

• Muscle weakness, fatigue, or loss of control.

• Hardened tissue or a palpable lump beneath the skin.

• Recurring spasms that happen in brief intervals.

• Lingering soreness that can last up to 24 hours after the cramp resolves.

Many things cause occasional leg cramps, like overexertion and standing in one position for too long. Infrequent leg cramps are typically not of medical concern and might not have a known cause (idiopathic). However, if your leg cramps are frequent, a cause must be determined. Leg cramps caused by serious health issues, like Chronic Venous Insufficiency, require medical attention since they are secondary to an underlying problem.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency: When valves fail inside our veins, blood collects beneath those valves (Chronic Venous Insufficiency), prompting lactic acid to build up and cause cramps in your legs.

Your varicose veins may cause mild pain and discomfort, but they’re usually asymptomatic. However, since varicose veins are caused by chronic venous insufficiency, you will experience the symptoms of the underlying vein disease:

• Large, twisted, bulging, and tortuous veins
• Swollen ankles and legs
• Leg heaviness
• Aching and tingling sensations
• Spider veins in the same areas as varicose veins
• Fatty deposits under the skin (lіроdеrmаtоѕсlеrоѕіѕ)
• Skin discoloration near the ankles, calves, and shins
• Skin dryness, itching, and redness (есzеmа)
• Frequent leg cramps
• Restless leg syndrome
• Symptoms that worsen at the end of the day