Photo: Nick Anderson of Greenville, N.C., left, his father Rick Anderson and stepbrother Jeramie Mullis pose with the 143-pound blue catfish caught Saturday in Virginia in Buggs Island Lake, also known as the Kerr Reservoir. The previous world record was a 130-pounder caught in the Missouri River last year.
A muscle cramp is a strong, painful contraction or tightening of a muscle that comes on suddenly and lasts from a few seconds to several minutes. It often occurs in the legs. A muscle cramp is also called a charley horse. Nighttime leg cramps are usually sudden spasms, or tightening, of muscles in the calf.
Causes of Muscle Cramps. Muscle cramps have several causes. Some cramps result from overuse of your muscles. This typically occurs while you are exercising. Muscle injuries and dehydration can also trigger cramps. Dehydration is the excessive loss of fluids in the body. Low levels of calcium and potassium may also cause muscle cramps, since both minerals contribute to healthy muscle function. Low blood supply to your legs and feet can cause cramping in those areas when you exercise, walk, or participate in physical activities.