Leg cramps are sudden, painful, involuntary muscle contractions usually in your calf, foot or thigh. You might also know them as a “charley horse.” They can last from several seconds to several minutes and cause your leg to spasm and tighten uncontrollably. They can be quite painful and make you wake up out of a sound sleep or even get up and walk around. 1. Who Gets Leg Cramps?The older you are, the more likely you are to have leg cramps. This is because your tendons (the tissues that connect muscles to bones) naturally shorten as you age. Women are also more likely to get them. 2. When Do Th…