Charlie Horses

I was in an accident back in 2004 and had to have a plate and screws in my left ankle, every since I have been dealing with really painful charlie horses in my left leg and foot, I also sometimes experience them in my right leg and foot as well. When i do get them in my left leg I have a very hard time walking and it is very very painful and its very hard to relax the muscles. Any ideas on what i can do to relieve this pain...Thanks for any help or ideas.