What Are Leg Spasms?
Leg spasms occur when a muscle in the leg, usually the calf, suddenly tightens involuntarily, causing a sensation sometimes called a charley horse. Leg spasms, or leg cramps, can be painful and momentarily debilitating, but usually resolve on their own with little or no treatment. Sometimes spasms can be the result of improper exercise, a dietary deficiency, or dehydration. Cramps and spasms also can be caused by medication side effects or an underlying medical condition, but many have no discernible cause.
