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Leg pain, heaviness when walking

12 Aug 18

Causes of leg pain when walking

Treatment of patients is a complex manipulation process. One diagnosis requires the results of twelve tests. There is a negative effect of initial examinations in irreversible forms of the disease, when it is difficult to get to a medical facility.

Pain in the legs when walking is familiar to everyone, but only a few take it seriously. Older people are more likely to seek help. Treatment prevents the development of serious complications. The causes of pathologies are not fully understood. The list of laboratory tests is impressive. It is better to undergo a course of physiotherapy than to undergo surgery. Gangrene can even deprive a limb.

Muscles, epithelium, bones, joints and other structures of the lower limb are penetrated by nerve endings. It is important to determine the source of the discomfort. Seven days of pain is a reason to visit a doctor. Attention is paid to the following prerequisites:

  • cramps of the lower extremities;
  • involuntary nervous tremors;
  • swelling, bluish skin;
  • sharp painful spasms.
  • The cause of anxiety is both muscle fatigue and Charcot's syndrome. Traumatologist, orthopedist, phlebologist, vascular surgeon are specializations that relate to this problem. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a highly specialized doctor.

    The problem is increased loads. Rarely changing positions, staying on your feet for a long time, physical inactivity are the causes of discomfort. Pregnancy and uncontrolled use of contraceptives place women at risk. Reasons for deviations:

  • Injuries. Incorrectly healed fractures, ignored dislocations, untreated sprains. The consequences develop gradually, osteophytes form. Muscles atrophy from model shoes and incorrect training algorithms.
  • Flat feet. Lack of cushioning leads to premature foot fatigue. My legs are shaking. Heaviness in the lower legs. Complexes of physical therapy are performed that are known to physiotherapists. Orthotics are recommended.
  • Water-salt imbalance. It is difficult to walk due to tingling in the muscles. A dehydrated body requires mineralization. Symptoms: increased need for fluid, tissue swelling. Possible dystonia, cardiac colic, nagging pain at the bottom of the shoulder blade.
  • Obesity. Excess cholesterol harms blood vessels. Plaques form. Excess weight is an additional burden on the muscles. The smaller the shoe size, the greater the load on the musculoskeletal system.
  • Short-term, irregular attacks indicate muscle fatigue. The calf muscle is most often affected. Three tips for relieving aching pain: lie down, relax, get a massage.

    Vascular changes cause suffering. The pain leads to nervous disorders. You have to walk with stops. They are followed by radiculitis, psoitis, and osteoarthritis. Panniculitis is a cause of concern. This is the destruction of fatty tissue. Among those undergoing treatment, women over twenty years of age are more common. This is a spontaneous disease. Diclofenac and naproxen are prescribed.

    Intermittent claudication

    Charcot's pain syndrome is provoked by the inability of the arteries to provide natural blood flow. Under-oxidized metabolic products interfere with circulation. Walking is accompanied by painful sensations. The person stops, the pain disappears.

    Depending on the area of ​​narrowing of the artery, the syndrome affects only the lower leg or pelvic muscles. The absence of pulsation in the dorsal artery of the foot indicates impaired blood circulation. Your doctor will recommend measuring your ankle-brachial index. At night, blood stagnation in the legs causes a burning sensation. It is recommended to hang your legs off the bed.

  • Neurogenic lameness. Men over 40 years of age are susceptible to the disease due to heavy physical labor. Numbness encircles the posterior corset of muscles. Discomfort disappears at rest. The movement starts all over again.
  • Venous intermittent claudication. Unable to climb stairs. The outflow of blood is not complete. The color of the nails changes. Dry skin is noted. Sensation of weights tied to the legs, muscles are subject to cramps. Raise your legs above heart level to restore blood flow. The intensity subsides slowly.

    Why does intermittent claudication occur? Narrowing of the lumen of the arteries impedes blood flow. The supply of nutrients becomes difficult. The slagging of the body plays into the hands of the destructive process. Causes: alcohol consumption, smoking, high cholesterol, heredity.

    Diseases of the arteries and veins

    In addition to atherosclerosis of the arteries, a characteristic symptom is cold feet. Other diseases:

  • Obliterating endarteritis. Vascular spasm with limited oxygen availability. It's difficult to move. Tissue death is possible due to lack of nutrients in the lymph.
  • Thrombangitis obliterans. Intense inflammatory process. Acute pain is replaced by periods of calm. Often requires limb amputation.
  • Embolism and thrombosis of arteries. Stagnation of blood leads to the formation of a clot. The skin turns pale, the muscles become numb. The final stage of development of the disease is paralysis.
  • Venous pain indicates thrombophlebitis. Impaired blood circulation deforms the veins and reduces their patency. If Charcot's syndrome is characterized by cooling of the extremities, then venous diseases are characterized by feelings of increased temperature.

    After a full day of work involving stress on your legs, you feel discomfort. Changes in thermal conditions and the use of intravaginal contraceptives provoke attacks. Relapses are stopped by development of the ankle joint. Eliminate venous pain by lifting the limb upward.

  • Phlebeurysm. More common in women. Reasons: abuse of heels, increased loads, static movements. Spider veins appear as the disease progresses. The next stage is changes in the skin. Tangible symptoms: painful heaviness, tense muscles, swelling;
  • Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis. Advanced inflammatory process. Blood clots may form. It is difficult to walk, there is a feeling of increased pressure in the lower leg. The temperature of the limb rises. The epithelium has a bluish tint, a painful reaction to touch. Due to impaired blood flow, the distal parts swell.
  • Lymphostasis. Occurs when lymph outflow is disrupted. Severe swelling of the lower leg. The appearance of purulent wounds. Streptococci and parasites are the culprits of the disease. Possible ruptures of lymphatic vessels.
  • An integrated approach is used to restore blood vessels. Stress, alcohol, fast food lead the series of negative factors.

    Taking care of your health helps you avoid relapses. Arteries, joints, and the posterior lumbar region require close attention.

    Pain in the legs due to inflammation and tumors

    Muscle inflammation causes severe pain. Charcot's syndrome, swelling, and itching combine the symptoms of inflammatory muscle lesions. These are myoenthesitis and paratenonitis. Pathologies are a consequence of constant pressure on the legs. Occurs when systematically lifting weights. They make muscles overstrained and can lead to micro-tears.

  • Myoenthesitis. Degenerative changes in muscle tissue;
  • Paratenonitis. Destructive change in the connective tissue around part of the tendon;
  • Insert. Neuralgic disease of an inflammatory nature.
  • The diseases are intercompatible. Reasons include chronicity, poor nutrition, stress, overwork, and frostbite. There have been cases where muscles have been torn off. Pain relief is carried out using novocaine blockade. The victim is being treated in a hospital. B vitamins are prescribed.

    Myositis is characterized by hard formations in areas where muscle tissue is damaged. Progressive pain. The back of the foot is overstrained, the joints gradually atrophy. Foci of redness appear. Mobility is limited, pain radiates to the lower back. Viruses, carcinogenic substances, fractures, parasites - these are the causative agents of the disease. Occupation can also cause myositis. People who experience constant stress on their legs are affected. The pain goes above the knee. Professional dancers and acrobats often hear this diagnosis. Analgesics are allowed. Overwork is prohibited.

    With malignant tumors, lameness develops as the joint becomes deformed and a pathological fracture occurs. There is no traumatic component. The fracture is spontaneous. This is not Charcot's syndrome. Pain accompanies the patient around the clock.

  • decreased sensitivity;
  • anemia (anemia);
  • atrophied muscles;
  • sleep disorder
  • Local manifestation is pain that gets worse at night. The attacks are difficult to control even with painkillers. This syndrome indicates a progressive disease. Bones become brittle and a blow threatens to fracture. Fainting occurs. The patient is being treated based on the biopsy findings. Benign tumors develop unnoticed and do not cause relapses.

    Prevention of pain

    If your leg hurts when walking, it is better not to use traditional medicine recipes. Different diagnoses require opposing treatments. Discomfort and a feeling of heaviness in the legs bother many. Prevention rules for each category of disease are different. They prevent pathologies and help resist disease in the early stages.

    If you have problems with blood vessels, you need to limit your intake of fatty foods. Sharp pain is provoked by an increase in cholesterol in the blood. Excess weight means additional stress on the joints. Salt consumption is limited. Varicose veins and brake veins are prevented by loose shoes. The swelling goes away when a tight bandage is applied, compression garments are effective. Ointments based on horse chestnut are used. It's good to walk barefoot. Back and front rolls, walking in place, headstand, internal and external rotations of the foot are exercises for prevention.

    Arterial pain will be facilitated by cleansing the body of toxins and eating green vegetables. Stop smoking. For alcoholic drinks, wine is preferable, and then in minimal quantities. Charcot syndrome is a hereditary disease. In order not to worsen the situation, it is better to give up bad habits. By strengthening the abs, the lower parts of the spine are unloaded. They affect the hip muscles, which unload the joint that runs above the knee. Everything is interconnected. Systematicity is important!

    Prolonged pain in the lower extremities requires consulting a doctor and establishing an accurate diagnosis. You can’t hesitate to avoid losing a limb.

    Symptoms of the disease - pain in the leg while walking

    Pain and its causes by category:

    Pain and its causes in alphabetical order:

    leg pain when walking

    There are several reasons that cause leg pain. These are diseases of the spine, joints, and blood vessels of the legs.

    What diseases cause pain in the leg when walking:

    Symptoms: the disease manifests itself as pain in the legs along the back of the thigh and buttock. Pain in the legs intensifies when walking, coughing, sneezing.

    1. radicular pain due to segmental instability;

    2. pain in the legs with myxedema is associated with rapid muscle fatigue, which is based on the lack of increase in metabolism during physical activity;

    3. multiple sclerosis;

    4. damage to the joints of the legs of a degenerative nature.

    Which doctors should you contact if you experience leg pain when walking:

    Do you experience leg pain when walking? Do you want to know more detailed information or do you need an inspection? You can make an appointment with the doctor Euro lab is always at your service! The best doctors will examine you, study external signs and help you identify the disease by symptoms, advise you and provide the necessary assistance. You can also call a doctor at home . Euro lab clinic is open for you around the clock.

    Phone number of our clinic in Kyiv: (+38 044) 206-20-00 (multi-channel). The clinic secretary will select a convenient day and time for you to visit the doctor. Our location and directions are listed here. Look in more detail about all the clinic’s services on its personal page.

    If you have previously performed any tests, be sure to take their results to a consultation with your doctor. If the studies have not been performed, we will do everything necessary in our clinic or with our colleagues in other clinics.

    Does your leg hurt when walking? It is necessary to take a very careful approach to your overall health. People do not pay enough attention to the symptoms of diseases and do not realize that these diseases can be life-threatening. There are many diseases that at first do not manifest themselves in our body, but in the end it turns out that, unfortunately, it is too late to treat them. Each disease has its own specific signs, characteristic external manifestations - the so-called symptoms of the disease . Identifying symptoms is the first step in diagnosing diseases in general. be examined by a doctor several times a year in order not only to prevent a terrible disease, but also to maintain a healthy spirit in the body and the organism as a whole.

    If you want to ask a doctor a question, use the online consultation section, perhaps you will find answers to your questions there and read tips on caring for yourself . If you are interested in reviews about clinics and doctors, try to find the information you need on the forum. Also register on the Eurolab medical to be constantly aware of the latest news and information updates on the site, which will be automatically sent to you by email.

    Heaviness in the legs due to various diseases

    The main reasons contributing to the appearance of heaviness in the legs

  • prolonged static loads and limited mobility;
  • floor;
  • seasonal exacerbations;
  • overweight;
  • heart pathologies;
  • pathologies of the vascular system;
  • lymphostasis;
  • kidney pathologies;
  • spine pathologies;
  • pathologies of the joints of the lower extremities;
  • flat feet;
  • diabetes;
  • taking certain medications;
  • pregnancy.
  • The cause of heaviness in the legs is often the presence of disease of the veins of the lower extremities. To eliminate pain, burning sensation, heaviness and discomfort in the legs, doctors most often prescribe Detralex to patients - a micronized venotonic with proven effectiveness. It not only increases the tone of the veins, improves pymphatic drainage, but also affects the cause of disturbing symptoms - the inflammatory reaction in the venous wall

    Static loads

  • fluctuations in hormonal levels during the menstrual cycle;
  • taking hormonal contraceptives;
  • pregnancy;
  • childbirth that provokes stagnation of blood in the venous bed of the lower extremities;
  • menopause;
  • frequent wearing of high-heeled shoes.
  • The consequences of such a condition can be especially unpleasant for the fair half of humanity. It tends to progress, and over time leads to cosmetic defects.

    Excess body weight

    This name combines a group of heart diseases in which pathologies of the heart muscle are observed that are not associated with diseases of the coronary vessels, heart valves and increased blood pressure.

    Inflammation of the connective tissue membrane of the heart, in which patients present the following complaints:

  • shortness of breath at rest and with little physical exertion;
  • pain in the heart area;
  • heartbeat;
  • general weakness;
  • weight loss;
  • the occurrence of a dry cough;
  • in severe cases - hemoptysis;
  • feeling of heaviness in the right hypochondrium;
  • increase in abdominal size.
  • Chronic heart failure is a whole complex of clinical manifestations that arise against the background of impaired pumping functions of the heart.

  • swelling of the lower extremities;
  • severe shortness of breath;
  • persistent dry cough;
  • rapid heartbeat;
  • general weakness and fatigue;
  • changes in the skin and its appendages in the form of ulcerations, deformation of nails, hair loss, etc.
  • Pathologies of blood vessels

    One of the causes of pain and heaviness in the legs is atherosclerosis of the arteries of the lower extremities (the appearance of cholesterol plaques on the inner wall of the arteries).

    An inflammatory disease of the arterial vessels, which most often affects the lower extremities. A characteristic manifestation of this pathology is the so-called “intermittent claudication.” The first 50-100 steps when walking are relatively easy, and after that numbness, heaviness and pain begin to increase in one or both legs. These symptoms disappear after a short rest, but return after a few dozen steps. In addition, endarteritis, as well as atherosclerosis of the lower extremities, is characterized by a feeling of cold in the legs. Often with this pathology, patients complain of frequent cramps in the leg muscles.

    Phlebeurysm

    The leading mechanism for the occurrence of varicose veins is the expansion of the saphenous veins of the lower extremities, which is why this pathology got its name. The initial stages of this disease are manifested by a few and very nonspecific symptoms. Patients complain of:

  • a feeling of heaviness in the legs, their rapid fatigue;
  • distension and the appearance of night cramps in the calf muscles;
  • “humming”, numbness and swelling of the legs at the end of the day;
  • sensation of “running goosebumps”, burning and pain in the legs and feet;
  • transient swelling along the veins of the lower extremities;
  • the appearance of spider veins and stars on the skin of the legs.
  • This symptom complex is distinguished by a pronounced individuality of manifestations in each patient, and is called restless legs syndrome in medicine.

  • sedentary lifestyle;
  • prolonged sitting (for example, with frequent flights and moving);
  • long-term static loads on the legs when in an upright position;
  • excess body weight;
  • use of hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy;
  • All these reasons lead to the fact that the blood flow in the veins of the lower extremities becomes insufficiently active. The volume of blood that is retained in the veins of the legs increases, which negatively affects the condition of the valves of the venous vessels.

    Thrombophlebitis is an inflammatory pathology of the venous vessels, in which there is stagnation of venous blood in the legs, an increase in its coagulability and the formation of thrombi - dense blood clots.

  • The pain is pulsating in nature, which often turns into a strong burning sensation under the skin. The pain syndrome with thrombophlebitis is constant, often combined with the occurrence of heaviness and swelling in the calf muscles.
  • With the development of thrombophlebitis in the superficial veins of the legs, painful compactions with reddening of the skin along the venous vessels are observed.
  • Deep vein thrombophlebitis is manifested by severe edema of the lower extremities, which is caused by a sharp disruption of venous outflow.
  • Quite often, thrombophlebitis has a chronic course with periodic exacerbations. The most dangerous complication of this disease is the detachment of a blood clot from the inner wall of a venous vessel. Such a blood clot can travel through the body and cause blockage of vital vessels. The most common causes of pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction or acute vascular pathologies of the brain are broken off blood clots in thrombophlebitis of the lower extremities.

    The clinical symptoms of this disease are:

  • swelling of the lower extremities;
  • feeling of heaviness in the legs;
  • violation of skin nutrition and the occurrence of trophic ulcers on it;
  • frequent infections;
  • Development of erysipelas of the lower extremities.
  • This pathology is characterized by a sharp, sometimes critical impairment of the excretory function of the kidneys. Most often, its development is provoked by some third-party disease - acute intoxication, exposure to ionizing radiation, etc.

    Chronic renal failure is a disorder of the excretory function of the kidneys, which develops as a result of long-term pathology of the genitourinary system, or is a consequence of acute conditions.

    1. Polyuric stage. This is a preclinical stage, which often does not have pronounced symptoms. At this stage, clinical manifestations prevail, which are determined by the underlying disease. Chronic renal failure at this stage is manifested by polyuria - an increase in the amount of urine, and nocturia - increased urine output at night.

    The following symptoms occur:

  • anorexia;
  • nervous system disorders (apathy, headaches, blurred vision, sleep disturbances);
  • anemia;
  • increased blood pressure;
  • pain in joints and bones;
  • skin itching;
  • swelling and heaviness in the lower extremities;
  • dyspeptic disorders in the form of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea;
  • increased heart rate;
  • heart rhythm disturbances.
  • 3. Stage of decompensation. At this stage, all the clinical symptoms described above become increasingly pronounced. In addition, inflammatory processes occur in the oral cavity and tongue, inflammation of the membranes of the lungs and heart, and pulmonary edema may develop.

    This pathology is quite common in childhood and is characterized by the development of edema throughout the patient’s body. Typically, the appearance of edema with this pathology is observed first in the eyelids and face. Subsequently, they begin to spread to the lumbar region and abdominal cavity with the development of ascites (accumulation of fluid between the layers of the peritoneum). As the disease progresses, the genitals and lower limbs become susceptible to swelling, which causes heaviness in the legs. With severe pathology, edema can reach the level of anasarca - generalized edema of the entire subcutaneous fatty tissue.

    Pathologies of the leg joints

    Inflammation of the joint and periarticular bursae of the knee joint, manifested by swelling, tenderness, heat and redness in the knee area. This swelling may spread down the limb and cause a feeling of heaviness in the right or left leg, depending on which side is affected. Bursitis is usually associated with pain when kneeling and also causes pain and stiffness when walking. The difference between bursitis and inflammation of the knee joint itself (arthritis) is that the pain syndrome is less severe and the range of motion in the joint is better preserved.

    Inflammation of the articular cartilages is characterized by severe pain, redness of the skin over the joint, limited mobility and changes in its shape. Often these inflammatory phenomena also affect the vessels of the lower extremities, causing swelling and heaviness in the legs. The joints affected by this pathology crack unnaturally loudly during physical activity, and they often experience characteristic morning stiffness.

    Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic infectious-allergic disease of the joints.

    The clinical picture of rheumatoid arthritis includes the following symptoms:

  • local increase in skin temperature and swelling around the affected joints;
  • deformation of joints and loss of their motor functions;
  • constant spontaneous pain in the joints, aggravated by active movement;
  • swelling and heaviness in the legs with damage to the joints of the lower extremities;
  • rheumatic nodules on the skin and vasculitis phenomena.
  • Joint damage caused by the accumulation of uric acid in the blood. Clinically, this pathology is manifested by attacks of acute arthritis and the formation of characteristic gouty nodes in the connective tissue - tophi.

    Spine pathologies

  • pain in the buttock that spreads from the lower back to the foot;
  • increased pain when sitting, coughing or sneezing;
  • numbness and burning in the legs;
  • fatigue, heaviness, weakness and “wooliness” of the lower extremities.
  • The patient can notice the beginning of the development of flat feet:

  • shoes become worn down and worn out on the inside;
  • legs get tired very quickly when walking and working in an upright position;
  • fatigue, pain and heaviness in the legs, swelling and cramps more often occur towards the end of the day;
  • constant swelling in the ankle area;
  • it becomes very difficult for women to wear high-heeled shoes;
  • an increase in the size of the foot, especially in width.
  • Taking certain medications

  • hormonal drugs;
  • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (eg, ibuprofen);
  • some drugs used to treat diabetes and high blood pressure.
  • Heaviness in legs during pregnancy

    1. The volume of circulating blood in the female body during pregnancy increases by approximately 20–30%. After all, a woman’s heart must now supply oxygen to not one, but two organisms. Therefore, the veins need to pump 0.5 liters more blood to the heart than usual. This causes a slowdown in the reverse flow of blood and, as a result, swelling of the lower extremities and the appearance of heaviness in the legs.

    2. The uterus, which increases in size as pregnancy progresses, begins to compress the pelvic vessels, preventing the normal return flow of venous blood from the legs to the heart.

    3. Progesterone, the amount of which in the blood increases towards the end of pregnancy, has a softening effect on the venous wall. This leads to the expansion of the lumen of the vessels under blood pressure, and to disruption of the closure of the valves, which should prevent its reverse flow.

    How to relieve heaviness in your legs?

    However, when the first symptoms appear, you can take some active measures yourself that will help you maintain an easy gait and beautiful legs:

  • When you get home, lie down and position your legs so that they are at the height of your heart or slightly higher. You can put a pillow under them or lean them against the back of the sofa. After staying in this position for 10–15 minutes, you will feel that the heaviness is leaving your legs. This method is an element of preventing the development of venous insufficiency and the occurrence of varicose veins.
  • Try to wear tight underwear and clothing (such as skinny jeans) as little as possible. Of course, women seem more attractive in such outfits, but we must not forget that tight clothing can interfere with normal blood circulation.
  • If your profession involves constantly being on your feet, use special compression socks, stockings or tights. They, unlike tight clothes, compress only the legs, and not the upper thighs, and thus do not interfere with venous outflow, helping to reduce swelling. In addition, it is useful to perform several squats every hour or, if possible, take a horizontal position for 10 minutes. In general, those who are constantly in one position (sitting or standing) should take every opportunity to stretch, do some exercise, or simply change positions.
  • Try to avoid uncomfortable shoes and high heels.
  • Before taking a shower, do a light preventative self-massage of your legs with your hands or a special massage brush. After water procedures, massage your legs with soft wiping movements from bottom to top in the direction of venous blood flow, using a towel.
  • Watch your body weight. Excess weight increases the load on the cardiovascular system and impairs blood circulation in the legs.
  • During pregnancy, you must follow all the above rules. Since such women are at risk, overloading their legs is strongly discouraged.
  • 1. Stand on a threshold or step, placing your body weight on the front of your feet. Straighten your back and don't strain your legs too much. To maintain balance, you can first hold onto the wall with your hand. Rock back hard, trying to maintain balance using only your legs. After this, slowly, counting to ten, return to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 3 more times, with rest breaks.

    2. Sit on a chair with your legs wide apart. Start moving your foot with your toes, pressing them to the sole and then releasing them. In this case, the entire foot should work, making wave-like movements. Try not to lift your feet off the floor and do the exercise until you feel tired.

    3. Try picking up a coin from the floor using your toes. Start with the largest coins, and as your skill improves, use smaller and smaller coins.

    Folk remedies for relieving heavy legs

  • Rubbing your feet with ice cubes containing mint extract.
  • Contrast baths with alternately lowering the legs into hot water (40-42 degrees) for 5 minutes, and then into cold water (less than 18 degrees) for 10-15 seconds.
  • The use of baths with infusion of plantain, nettle and coltsfoot. To prepare such a bath, you need to pour 4 tablespoons of the herbal mixture into 3 liters of boiling water, then leave for 45 minutes.
  • Washing the feet with linden water, as well as foot baths with infusion of elderberry and mint, taken in equal quantities.
  • To soften the skin and relieve swelling, add an infusion of mint, chamomile, birch leaves, or 2 teaspoons of baking soda to the bath water. Afterwards, carefully lubricate the rough areas with cream.
  • When performing self-massage from ankles to calves, use soothing lotions or massage oils with aromatic additives. In addition, the use of horse chestnut extract may be effective.
  • For foot baths, you can use an infusion of oak and chestnut branches. Boil half a kilogram of branches from each tree, let them steep for 12 hours, and take half-hour cool foot baths for 10 days.
  • Another recipe that relieves heaviness in the legs is baths with pine needles. Bring 100 g of pine needles to a boil in a liter of water, and then steam the infusion in a water bath for half an hour. After the broth has completely cooled and filtered, dilute the resulting mixture with cool water and immerse your feet for 15 minutes.
  • When to see a doctor if you have heavy legs?

    • chest pain lasting more than 10 minutes;
    • difficulty breathing;
    • dizziness and fainting;
    • confused state of consciousness.
    • Also seek immediate medical attention if swelling is associated with recent physical trauma to the legs, such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury.

      How to find out the reason?

    • Ultrasonography. Ultrasound scanning of the veins and arteries of the lower extremities is mandatory. With the help of this examination, a specialist can identify atherosclerotic lesions of arterial vessels, determine the severity of narrowing of the lumen of the vessel, and detect areas of blockage of the arteries. It is also necessary to conduct ultrasound examinations of the pelvic organs: the ovaries and uterus in women, and the prostate gland in men. This examination allows us to exclude pathologies of these organs, since their enlargement can lead to compression of large vessels that are responsible for blood circulation in the lower extremities.
    • Angioscanning. This diagnostic method allows you to examine the condition of deep and superficial veins along their entire length. In the process, the degree of narrowing of the veins, the location of their blockage is determined, and the presence of thrombophlebitis is revealed. In addition, angioscanning helps to detect the presence of such a serious complication as floating thrombosis - a blood clot loosely attached to the vessel wall, which has a high probability of breaking off.
    • Endocrine System Research . It is carried out to identify diabetes mellitus or other metabolic pathologies that lead to seizures, sensory disturbances, pain and heaviness in the lower extremities.
    • Blood test for specific factors of rheumatoid inflammation.
    • Examination of the urinary system using ultrasound of the kidneys, general clinical and biochemical urine analysis.
    • Research of the cardiovascular system. It includes performing electrocardiography, as well as ultrasound examination of the heart using the Doppler effect.
    • If a person experiences difficulty walking, especially when climbing stairs, pain and a feeling of heaviness in the legs, this is an alarming signal. Perhaps pathologies have begun to develop that cannot be ignored. Fibromyalgia, peripheral arterial disease, as well as other disorders of the nervous and circulatory system must be excluded. More common causes of heavy legs are varicose veins or spider veins. Typical symptoms of such pathologies include increased fatigue in the legs, swelling, itching, restless legs syndrome, burning, cramps and changes in skin color.

      Why do you constantly experience heaviness in your legs, where does the discomfort come from?

      The legs are the furthest part of the body from the heart, which means that blood delivery back and forth requires considerable effort. In addition, the physical stress on the limbs is great, because they have to “carry” many kilograms throughout the day.

      Physical activity requires a good supply of blood to the muscles, and accordingly the pressure on the blood vessels, especially the veins, increases. Therefore, it is the veins that most often become the first victims of negative factors.

      Pain and heaviness in the legs most often occurs due to lack of blood circulation. Muscle cells do not have enough oxygen and other nutrients, and they persistently begin to signal this with pain.

      It is worth noting that even with healthy leg vessels, after intense physical activity, a feeling of heaviness and mild pain will be present in any case, and this is considered normal. However, if the problem recurs, becomes regular, or any factors that increase the pain are noticed, you should contact a specialist to search for and exclude pathology, if any.

      Causes of heaviness in the legs: diagnosis of diseases, symptoms and signs

      Causes of leg pain are diseases of the bones, joints and muscles

      It is characterized by sudden, tight, intense pain in the lower leg. This soreness is often caused by muscle fatigue, heat, or dehydration. Muscle cramps are more common among older people and professional athletes. In most cases, muscle spasms disappear after eliminating the factors that cause them. If necessary, gentle stretching of the legs or massage of the surface of the muscles is recommended at the time of pain. Applying heat to the cramped muscle area or a cold compress may help relieve the severity of the pain and symptoms.

      Pain in this area occurs when the connective tissue and muscles along the edge of the tibia become inflamed. This often occurs due to colds or severe sprains. Flat feet and toe deformity may also contribute to this problem. The pain usually disappears with the symptoms of the disease. Applying ice, taking anti-inflammatory drugs can help, and at such times it is better to avoid physical activity.

      One of the first signs of tendinitis, or inflammation of the tendon tissue, is pain in the bottom of the foot or heel bone area. In this case, applying ice and taking anti-inflammatory drugs is indicated. In addition, you need to avoid anything that causes pain. Supportive shoes that reduce stress on the tendons can also help. If the pain is very severe, the Achilles tendon may have ruptured, which will require urgent medical attention.

      • Bone fracture, knee or ankle sprain

      Fractures of the bones of the lower extremities and sprains of ligaments usually cause very severe pain that occurs immediately after the accident. However, the source of aching pain, especially at night, can be cracks in the bone, as well as mild sprains, which sometimes manifest themselves after some time.

      Leg pain due to circulatory disorders

      Thrombophlebitis is a disease associated with the formation of blood clots - blood clots that form in the bed of the deep veins of the lower extremities in combination with inflammatory processes in the walls of blood vessels. The process of blood clots is called deep vein thrombosis. Thrombophlebitis is more common in the deep veins of the lower leg or thigh. This disorder is often caused by long periods of inactivity, being overweight, smoking, or taking medications. These conditions cause increased blood clotting and, as a result, the formation of blood clots.

      It is worth noting that thrombosis is a very dangerous disease. After all, the detachment of a blood clot is a common occurrence, and its delivery by blood flow to the pulmonary artery can lead to thromboembolism or blockage of the vein. Thromboembolism of large trunks of the pulmonary artery is fraught with sudden death.

      Weak valves and walls of the external veins of the lower extremities lead to stagnation in the vessels, which provokes a disruption of the normal outflow of blood. Varicose veins are a common cause of leg pain that worsens after heavy physical activity. Externally, varicose veins are characterized by the presence of foci of blue or purple formations under the skin of the extremities, resembling hematomas. You should be very careful and careful when handling these swellings. After all, the wall of the vein in these places is thinned, and the lumen is filled with blood. Therefore, even a small puncture can cause severe bleeding. Varicose veins cause dull pain, especially when standing for a long time.

    • Skin lesions
    • Allergic, infectious or parasitic skin diseases often lead to discomfort in the lower extremities. In addition to pain, often accompanying symptoms are itching, focal or diffuse redness, increased sensitivity, swelling and local fever.

      Sclerotic changes in the arteries lead to a narrowing of their lumen or complete blockage, which greatly reduces blood pressure and, as a consequence, the volume of blood required for the muscles. Often such phenomena lead to severe pain in the legs, cramps, gait disturbances, and lameness. In especially severe cases, the patient is unable to climb stairs or any other, even minor, physical activity.

      If the arteries become significantly narrowed or blocked, the pain may persist while at rest. A characteristic symptom of sclerotic vein diseases is deterioration in the healing of wounds on the surface of the skin of the legs.

      With prolonged or incorrect treatment of a disease that causes sclerotic lesions in the veins, necrosis of muscle tissue, so-called necrosis, can occur.

      The risk of developing arteriosclerosis increases in patients with diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Heavy smokers are at particular risk. The disease requires careful proper treatment and regular examinations.

      Leg pain due to nervous system disorders

    • Stenosis or narrowing of the spinal canal and lumbosacral radiculitis
    • A common cause of spinal stenosis is arthritis of the vertebrae. In some cases, a herniated disc puts pressure on nearby nerve roots, which can lead to symptoms of sciatica.

      The pain may begin in the back and hip, then spread down the leg. Treatment may include rest for several days along with anti-inflammatory and pain medications. Cold and heat may help with some symptoms. Physical therapy in the form of specific stretching exercises is very helpful. You should not make sudden movements after sitting or lying for a long time.

      In diabetes, nerves can be damaged by high blood sugar levels, which is a common complication of diabetes. Pain usually occurs in both legs along with numbness and a feeling of weakness in the lower extremities. Treatment includes pain medications and a prescribed medication regimen to control blood sugar levels.

      Heaviness in the legs, pain and swelling: which doctor will help?

      A visit to a medical institution begins with a surgeon, or a more specialized specialist, if there is one on staff - a vascular surgeon (phlebologist). In case of unspecified changes, you should contact your local physician.

      What is the danger of heaviness in the legs during pregnancy and how to get rid of painful sensations during this period?

      Pregnancy is a physiological process that causes many changes in the body of the expectant mother. Frequent aching pain in the legs occurs due to weight gain and a shift in the center of gravity. In addition, the condition is aggravated by associated pathological processes that already exist or were previously present in the pregnant woman’s history.

      After visiting a specialist and excluding complex pathological conditions requiring treatment, a number of measures can be recommended that may help reduce leg pain.

    • It is necessary to constantly monitor your own weight , adhering to the correct menu. This is especially true for drinking liquids. A lot of water is required during pregnancy, but if it is in excess, swelling of the legs may occur, which will aggravate the pain in the legs.
    • During movement, it is necessary to monitor the axis of posture and, if possible, distribute the weight evenly on both legs.
    • Pregnant women are advised to avoid prolonged standing to avoid unnecessary stress on the lower limbs.
    • During night sleep, you need to change body positions more often. You should not stay on your left side for a long time, since the weight of the abdomen puts pressure on the vena cava, which collects venous blood from the lower part of the body. Slowing blood flow in it makes it difficult for the exchange in the legs, which in the morning will cause a feeling of lack of rest.

    Gymnastics and folk remedies to relieve heavy legs

    There are several gymnastic exercises that help redistribute blood in the muscles of the legs, which reduces the feeling of fatigue and pain. It is recommended to conduct classes on an empty stomach no later than 3 hours before bedtime.

  • Sitting pose, legs extended forward. The heels are pressed to the floor. Perform circular movements with the feet 10 times in each direction.
  • Similar exercise. However, it is performed in turn with each leg.
  • In the “sitting” position, emphasis is placed alternately on the heels and toes.
  • Sitting position, knees at an angle of 90 degrees. It is necessary, while keeping your socks pressed to the floor, try to pull your heels as high as possible. Perform 10-20 times.
  • In a standing position, arms at your sides, legs together. At the same time, you need to stretch both legs up and smoothly lower them down.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, but the arms are raised up. At the moment of lowering to the heels - a full squat.
  • Walk in place without lifting your toes off the floor, lifting only your heels. For convenience, you can press the palms of your hands against the wall.

    Among folk remedies for relieving heaviness in the legs, several recipes are recommended (used externally).

  • Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of olive oil.
  • For a glass of vegetable oil - juice of one medium lemon.
  • A compress of pounded bran brewed in milk, with the mixture pre-cooled.
  • Why does pain and heaviness occur in the legs?

    Pain and heaviness in the legs occurs frequently. It can be a symptom of fatigue, overwork, and a signal that it’s time to go to a medical facility. To distinguish between harmless and dangerous symptoms, you need to know the causes and consequences of pain - we will also tell you in the article about the treatment of unpleasant sensations.

    Causes of heavy legs

    Pain and heaviness in the legs occurs for various reasons:

  • Diseases of the liver and kidneys, pathologies of internal organs.
  • Disease of the joints and spine.
  • Diseases of the cardiovascular system.
  • Elephantiasis.
  • Pregnancy.
  • Neurological diseases characterized by the insensitivity of body cells to heat or cold.
  • Diabetes.
  • Oncology (possible tumor of the lower extremities, cartilage, joints).
  • Diseases caused by infections (erysipelas, osteomyelitis).
  • Pain caused by cardiovascular diseases: varicose veins

    Varicose veins are common causes of pain and heaviness in the legs. Characteristic symptoms of the disease: heaviness in the legs, fatigue due to heavy physical activity. My legs tingle and the sensation goes away after rest. If you experience limb cramps at night or suddenly experience acute pain, it’s time to see a doctor. The disease often occurs in old age.

    Deep vein thrombosis

    The disease has no prominent symptoms. Thrombosis is determined by swelling in the legs, heaviness in the legs, indicating blockage of blood clots.

    Obliterating endarteritis

    If you constantly limp, constantly stop to rest when walking, feel pain in the calf muscles, burning pain in the foot, the cause is obliterating endarteritis.

    There is swelling in the legs, throbbing or nagging pain, this is thrombophlebitis. The swelling does not heal, and redness appears along the veins.

    Aneurysm of the arteries of the lower extremities

    The causes of the disease are decreased pressure in the arteries. It is characterized by pain under the knee, in the buttocks (depending on the location of the affected vessels), the pain is acute, unbearable. Numbness of the legs and loss of sensation occurs.

    Thromboembolism of the arteries of the lower extremities

    The disease is a consequence of diseases of the cardiovascular system - which are the causative causes. There is a sharp and sudden pain in the leg, the surface turns pale, and there is no pulse in the affected artery.

    Pain and heaviness in the legs occurs with diabetes. Veins or arteries - felt in the muscles on the calf of the leg, small vessels - the patient feels a lack of sensitivity in the legs, a burning sensation. A characteristic feature of pain is its absence at rest.

    The causes of the rare disease are a violation of the passage of fluid in the lymphatic vessels, characterized by heaviness in the legs, which does not go away when walking, in a relatively calm state.

    Diseases of the musculoskeletal system: lumbosacral radiculitis

    The cause of the disease is thinning of the intervertebral discs. The patient experiences pain in the lower back, radiating to the back of the thigh and the side of the leg. You can make the situation easier by lying on your stomach with a pillow.

    Pain occurs due to interrelated factors - sitting in one place, poor diet, difficult working conditions.

    The causes are changes in the foot and inflammatory diseases. Foot pain is associated with diseases: flat feet, bursitis, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis.

    With arthrosis, pain in the hip or knee joint characterizes deformation and slow destruction. After rest, the pain disappears, appearing during physical activity. If the disease is not treated, joint mobility is lost.

    Neurological disorders: lumboischialgia

    Pain in the lower back is associated with spinal disc disease, with pain radiating to the leg. The pathology is called lumboischialgia. The pain syndrome is formed due to compression of the nerves, the pain radiates to the leg, moving down the sciatic nerve. Subsequently, the intervertebral cartilage is destroyed.

    Against the background of pathological pain in the lower back, swelling develops in the legs, deterioration of blood circulation, and the pain is sharp and sharp. The phenomena appear in the lower back in people over twenty-five years of age. There are different types of disease:

    1. Muscular-tonic appearance. Characterized by sharp, acute pain, movements in the lower back are limited.
    2. Vegetative-vascular appearance. The pain is burning, localized in the foot area, radiating to the lower back. Characterized by numbness of the limbs.
    3. The neurodystrophic appearance appears at night. It is characterized by spasm in the lower back, in the foot area, the skin over the affected area becomes thinner.

    Leg pain and stretch marks

    The causes of pain are physical exercise, or more precisely, stretching. Leg muscles, during intense training, produce lactic acid. This increases muscle mass, which is why your legs hurt. It happens that a beginner athlete stretches incorrectly.

    To do stretching correctly, consult a trainer. If you have pain in your legs, it is not recommended to sit on the exercise machine. Do your stretches correctly.

    Treatment of pain and heaviness in the legs

    Treatment should begin with a diagnosis prescribed by the attending physician. You should not self-medicate. After the tests have been carried out, systematic treatment is prescribed.

    If the causes of leg pain are cardiovascular diseases, you need to reduce your intake of foods with cholesterol that form varicose veins. You need to lose weight, don’t sit for long periods of time at work, don’t stand for long periods of time.

    If the problems are related to the lower back and joints, the doctor will prescribe systematic treatment with sessions of manual therapy, vacuum therapy and acupuncture. Exercises that develop the abdominal muscles, which can be performed at home after consulting with a doctor, are useful.

    Heaviness in the legs is treated in a medical institution and at home; heaviness occurs due to edema. To reduce them, place your feet on a platform or pillow and lie down for fifteen minutes. It is recommended to wipe your feet with a piece of ice (you can add mint to the ice), contrast baths are possible, after cold feet are immersed in hot water.

    Treat with a cold compress or massage, and lubricate the foot with mint balm prepared at home. Prepare a gel from essential oils, based on vegetable oil or medical gel from the pharmacy.

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