Why Are Your Legs Aching?

Everyone may suffer from leg pain at one time. Though it seems trivial, leg pain may indicate various problems. The leg is composed of many tissues: muscle, skin, bones, joints tendons, ligaments, blood vessels and nerves. If any part of it goes wrong, it will alert you by aching. Besides, some diseases affecting the whole human body may also cause pain in the legs. Here are some possible reasons for leg pain.

Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps are the sudden and involuntary contractions of muscles. When a muscle cramps, it contracts forcefully and does not relax, leading to a sensation of pain, tightness, or discomfort in the affected area. Leg cramps often happen in the calf, and bring sharp pain. Cramps are often caused by dehydration, muscle fatigue, or electrolyte imbalances. So it is crucial to stay hydrated and have rest when doing strenuous exercise.

Muscle Strain and Sprain

Muscle strain happens when the muscle fibers are stretched or torn. A sprain happens when the ligaments are stretched or torn. Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect bones to each other at joints. Muscle strain and sprain can lead to pain, swelling and limited range of motion in the affected area. It usually results from excessive physical activity or improper use of muscles. Treatment for them involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with gentle stretching and strengthening exercises.

Shin splints

Shin splints happen when muscles and tissues around your shinbone get inflamed, making the inner edge of the bone hurt. This condition, known as medial tibial stress syndrome, is common among athletes and individuals who run a lot. Flat feet and wrong shoes can also lead to it. Physical therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, orthotics, and proper footwear can help alleviate address shin splints.

Stress fractures

Stress fractures occur when muscles become fatigued and are unable to absorb excess shock. This will pose too much stress on the bones and make tiny cracks on them. They are typically caused by repetitive stress and overuse. The lack of calcium, improper footwear and previous injuries will also increase the risk. Long and enough rest are essential for the bones to repair themslves. No strenuous exercise should be done before the cracks are cmpletely healed.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis refers to the inflammation of tendons. Tendons are the flexible tissue that connect muscles to bones. It is a wear-and-tear injury that can affect various areas and cause great pain. As with muscle strain and sprain, the best way to treat it is the RICE method. In some cases, more advanced treatments such as corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly the legs. This condition is usually caused by fat buildup in the arteries. Other factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a sedentary lifestyle. With PAD, your legs may feel weak, numb or cramp when you walk.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) refers to blood clots in deep veins, which typically locate in the leg muscles. The most common reason of DVT is prolonged immobility, such as sitting on a long-distance flight. During special periods like post-surgery and pregnancy, the risk will also be higher. Use of oral contraceptives, smoking and obesity are all potential causes. It doesn't always cause symptoms, but there might be pain, swelling and warmness.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted, and often bulging veins that commonly occur in the legs. They are usually purple or blue. Varicose veins can make your legs feel throb, pain and discomfort. Old age, pregnancy, obesity, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle will increase the risk of developing varicose veins. This condition itself is also a potential sign of many chronic diseases. Consult a doctor for advice and a management plan.

Sciatica

Sciatica happens when a herniated disc, bone spur or spinal stenosis puts pressure on a nerve. This can lead to pain, numbness and weakness that radiates down the leg from the hip to the foot. In some cases, patients need surgery to alleviate the pain and remove the pressure. Age, obesity, diabetes, prolonged sitting and physical labor will increase the risk.

Arthritis

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the joints. It can cause pain, swelling and stiffness. Walking and doing other physical activities can be hard when it happens in your hips, knees or ankles. Arthritis cannot be cured, but there are still many ways to alleviate pain and improve the patient's quality of life. Medications, physical therapy, exercise and weight management can help.

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, which leads to urate crystals in the joints. These crystals can cause sudden and severe pain and swelling in the affected joint. Gout commonly affects the big toe. Therefore, gout pain in the leg usually means it is in an advanced stage. Patients need to control their diet, quit alcohol and take medicines to alleviate this condition.