If you’re currently expecting, you’ve probably heard of (or perhaps already experienced) some of the aches and pains pregnancy can bring about, but you might not have been prepared for the suddenness or intensity of the sharp, squeezing, twisting pain of a charlie horse.
Some women have described the pain of charlie horses as feeling like their legs were being squeezed in a vise or clamp; others have described feeling as though their legs were being tied in knots and being pulled at both ends. However you want to describe it, the pain of a charlie horse is certainly unpleasant.
What is a charlie horse?
A charlie horse, also sometimes spelled “charley horse” is a type of leg cramp that affects pregnant women, particularly during their second and third trimesters. To this day, doctors are uncertain what precisely causes charlie horse leg cramps, but common theories include the uterus putting pressure on certain nerves, and/or decreased circulation in the legs as a result of the baby putting pressure on blood vessels.
Finding relief for charlie horse leg cramps
Prior to founding Castle Baths, CB owner Laura Thomas, experienced numerous charlie horse leg cramps during each of her pregnancies. Her doctor recommended an unusual solution: Dead Sea Bath Salts. She took his advice and has enjoyed the soothing and rejuvenating powers of aromatherapy-scented Dead Sea Bath Salts ever since! Now, she offers her experience and expertise with charlie horses freely to other expecting mothers.
If you’re expecting, or you know someone who is, be sure to check out Laura’s personal story on leg cramp and charlie horse relief to find out which aromatherapy essential oil blends she recommends when selecting a Dead Sea Bath Salt or Conditioning Soak.
Do you have your own natural or homeopathic remedy for charlie horse leg cramps? Talk to us! We’d love to hear from you, and add your story and advice to our leg cramp relief page!
