The Achilles Tendon attached to the heel is the meeting point of the two calf muscles, i.e., soleus and gastrocnemius. Every individual does not experience the same sensation for calf pain. The causes may also vary. Some may feel a dull or sharp pain and tightness behind the lower leg.
Swelling, unusual coolness, paleness, tingling or numbness in the leg, sudden weakness in the leg, fluid retention, tenderness in the calf, etc, are some symptoms that may indicate severe conditions. If any of these symptoms are noticed along with calf pain, immediate medical attention has to be sought.
Calf Muscle Pain Causes
Various factors contribute to calf pain. You should understand the different calf pain causes and the conditions related to it. Some of the causes are:
Muscle Strain: Overuse or improper use of leg muscles can lead to muscle strain. This can happen when you start a new exercise routine or increase the intensity of leg exercises. Leg exercises that could cause muscle strain are cycling, powerlifting, or running.
Muscle Cramp: A sudden contraction of muscles is a muscle cramp that may be due to dehydration, injuries, mineral deficiencies, or exercise. These cramps last only for a few seconds but can be very painful. In some cases, it could be linked to other conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes, pregnancy, alcoholism, kidney failure, or diabetes, Most pregnant women experience muscle cramps, especially in the last trimester of pregnancy.
Achilles Tendonitis: Achilles tendons connect the gastrocnemius, soleus, and plantaris muscles. Overuse of Achilles tendons can cause calf pain. The symptoms associated with Achilles Tendonitis are stiffness in the back of the ankle, inflammation of the tendon, and pain.
Sciatica: This condition is an outcome of issues with the sciatic nerve. This nerve controls the muscles from the lower back to the calf. It can cause pain, tickling, or numbness in the lower back, which can extend up to the calf.
Bruise: Trauma which is a result of a fall, blow, or injury can cause a bruise. With trauma, the capillaries beneath the skin burst, which causes skin discoloration. Bruises subside over time generally. But if the bruise recurs continuously without any injury, then it is a cause of concern and may need immediate medical attention.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy: This is a complication that arises out of diabetes. It is a nerve damage that can affect the legs, arms, hands, and feet. This happens when your blood sugar levels are high for a prolonged period. Managing blood sugar levels and medication can help relieve the symptoms.
Compartment Syndrome: Pressure buildup in muscles will lead to this syndrome. A broken bone or a fracture can cause the syndrome. Compartment syndrome can occur due to specific causes like anabolic steroid use. Even constricting bandages can cause the issue. The symptoms associated with this condition are tightness in the muscle, difficulty in moving the area affected, numbness, and paralysis that indicates permanent damage.
Chronic compartment syndrome can occur during exercise. The pain subsides once you stop the exercise. It can also cause numbness, difficulty in moving the legs, or noticeable muscle bulging.
Deep Vein Thrombosis: Blood clotting in the deep vein in the leg or arm will cause deep vein thrombosis. Various factors like smoking, obesity, pregnancy, family history, etc., can cause DVT. Some of the symptoms of DVT are visible veins in the area affected, swelling in the leg, foot, or ankle, skin discoloration, pain in the leg, etc.
Calf Pain Treatment
The calf pain treatment method depends on the cause of the pain. Here are some treatments that may suggested for calf pain caused by overuse of leg muscle or mild trauma.
- Mild stretches that include calf raising, downward facing-dog exercise, and straight calf stretches.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers can ease the calf pain.
- Follow the following after an injury to support the healing process and to prevent further damage. The acronym for the support is PEACE.
- Protect
- Elevate
- Avoid Anti-inflammatory modalities as inflammatory processes assist in healing.
- Compress
- Educate
If the pain becomes intolerable and does not reduce within a few days, you should seek medical attention.
Conclusion
Calf pain can occur due to muscle cramps, muscle strain, or due to conditions like sciatica. You will experience a dull or sharp pain behind the lower leg, which may be accompanied by tightness and swelling.
Treatment methods like stretching and over-the-counter medications can be adopted depending on the cause of the pain. However, if the pain persists even after a few days, you should seek medical attention to prevent further complications.
