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Why is a Leg Cramp Called a “Charlie Horse”?

called charlie horse cramp leg
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Why is a Leg Cramp Called a “Charlie Horse”?

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A lot of people have already experienced having a “charlie horse” or a leg cramp. They may know how much it hurts, what to do to treat it, and causes of a charlie horse, but only a few really know why a leg cramp is called a charlie horse. A Charlie horse is a popular term used in North America to refer to a painful bruise of the quadriceps of the lateral or anterior thigh, which could result in many weeks of disability and pain, and even muscular hematoma. The term Charlie horse could also be used to describe common foot or leg cramping. In the UK and other Commonwealth countries, it may also be referred to as a dead leg, while in Australia, it’s called a “corkie.” Oftentimes a charlie horse occurs in sports, such as when an athlete is hit by an opponent’s knee, in a manner that is similar to the kick of a horse. Such is the reason why it is called a charlie horse. Because the term “Charlie horse” is a weird name to describe a leg cramp, many people can’t help but wonder about how the

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