Common Reasons for Lower Leg Pain
Sometimes our lower leg (calves and shins) feel pain or achiness for reasons that aren’t obvious. What are some of the most common reasons for lower leg pain?
- Injury – One of the most obvious reasons for lower leg pain is injury. Whether it’s minor or major, get evaluated by a doctor right away to make sure you’re able to get the proper treatment.
- Muscle Strain/Fatigue – Overuse of your legs or sudden increases in activity can cause pain in your lower legs. Make sure that before you start any physical activity, warm up properly and wear the right shoes. Raise the intensity in small intervals so that you don’t overwork your legs.
- Tendonitis – Tendonitis is when your tendon becomes inflamed and causes pain. The pain can start in your feet but travel up your leg depending on how severe the tendonitis is. If you have flat feet or high arches, you have a greater chance of developing tendonitis.
- Medical Ailments – Sometimes your lower leg pain is a symptom of something greater. Some common conditions that cause lower leg pain are; multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, diabetes, etc. Any medications that you may be on can also affect your legs.
- Back Pain – Back pain is complex and can be caused by even the tiniest thing going wrong in any of your bones, nerves, muscles, etc. Sometimes back pain will radiate upwards and go towards your neck, but it can also travel downwards and affect your lower leg.
- Circulation Issues – Anything that can mess up your circulation can give you lower leg pain. It’s already more difficult for your body to process blood in your legs because of gravity. If you have circulation issues, the lack of proper blood flow may be signaling your brain.
Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm of Clifton Foot & Ankle Center has been treating patients for over eighteen years. If you have any questions call our Centreville, VA office at 703-996-3000 or make an appointment here.
