charleyhorse

Charley Horse

A popular term for leg pain caused by a contusion to the thigh involving the quadriceps muscle; without immediate compression, the ensuing hematoma and pain can be substantial; the term is often applied to painful injuries to other muscle groups

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charleyhorse [chahr´le-hors]

popular term for soreness and stiffness in a muscle, especially the quadriceps femoris muscles, due to overstrain or contusion. It usually occurs when muscles that have not been conditioned for hard use are put under a strain, with the result that some of the muscle fibers are strained or may actually tear. It is characterized by soreness, stiffness, and pain that often comes on very suddenly. Heat, such as from a warm bath, helps the condition, and aspirin is useful in relieving the pain. If the pain persists for several days, there may be some other muscle injury and a health care provider should be consulted.