What does pain in the calves indicate?

What does pain in the calves indicate?

Calf muscle pain is usually the result of a mild injury, such as a strain, or leg cramps. But severe or ongoing pain in your calves can be a sign that the muscles in your lower legs aren’t getting enough blood.

How do you diagnose calf pain?

When diagnosing calf pain, healthcare providers may use various imaging tests. X-rays can reveal many types of abnormalities of the lower leg, ankle, or knee, particularly problems with bones and joints. An ultrasound or MRI may be used to evaluate calf tendon injuries and tears.

What diseases cause calf pain?

A variety of conditions and situations can cause calf pain, including:

  • Muscle cramp. Muscle cramps in the calf are a common complaint for those who exercise frequently.
  • Muscle strain.
  • Arterial claudication.
  • Neurogenic claudication.
  • Achilles tendinitis.
  • Compartment syndrome.
  • Diabetic neuropathy.
  • Plantar fasciitis.

Does diabetes cause calf pain?

Diabetes can lead to a variety of complications. Leg pain and cramps often occur as a result of nerve damage called diabetic neuropathy. If diabetes damages nerves in your arms or legs, it’s called diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

How do I relieve calf pain?

How is calf pain treated?

  1. Rest the area.
  2. Ice the area for 20 minutes, using a covered icepack or bag of frozen peas.
  3. Compress the area with a bandage (but if the pain gets worse, loosen the bandage).
  4. Elevate the lower leg by sitting or lying down (for example with pillows), so it is above the level of the heart.

What is diabetic leg pain like?

Another symptom is a burning, sharp, or aching pain (diabetic nerve pain). The pain may be mild at first, but it can get worse over time and spread up your legs or arms. Walking can be painful, and even the softest touch can feel unbearable. Up to 50 percent of people with diabetes may experience nerve pain.

What doctor treats calf pain?

Orthopedic specialist or orthopedic surgeon. Vascular surgeon. Rheumatologist. Physical medicine or rehabilitation specialist (physiatrist)

What is the best painkiller for calf pain?

Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen also help relieve calf pain. The effects of pain relievers last for 4 to 12 hours.

How do you check blood circulation in your legs?

A Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images that highlight blood flow in the leg arteries. This test detects and evaluates any blockages caused by plaque buildup.

How do I relax my calves?

Stretches to relieve tight calves

  1. Stand near a wall with one foot in front of the other, front knee slightly bent.
  2. Keep your back knee straight, your heel on the ground, and lean toward the wall.
  3. Feel the stretch all along the calf of your back leg.
  4. Hold this stretch for 20-30 seconds.

When should you worry about calf pain?

Inability to walk comfortably on the affected side

  • Injury that causes deformity of the lower leg
  • Calf pain that occurs at night or while resting
  • Calf pain that persists beyond a few days
  • Swelling of the calf or ankle joint area
  • Signs of an infection,including fever,redness,warmth
  • Any other unusual symptoms

    • What is the treatment for calf pain?

    Rest. The first treatment,in most cases,is to rest the muscles and allow the acute inflammation to lessen.

  • Ice and Heat. Ice packs and heating pads are among the most commonly used treatments for muscle or tendon-related calf pain.
  • Stretching.
  • Physical Therapy.
  • Medications.

    • What could be causing your calf pain?

    Causes. Muscle cramps in the calf are a common complaint for those who exercise frequently.

  • Treatment. Treatment for calf pain will depend on the underlying cause.
  • Stretches. Warming up by walking at a moderate pace before engaging in more intense exercise can help to prevent muscle strain injuries.
  • When to see a doctor.
  • Diagnosis.

    • What causes pain in a calf?

    Types of Calf Pain. Calf pain can be broken up into two categories: pain that is related to the muscles,and pain that is not.

  • Muscle-Related Causes.
  • Other Causes.
  • When to See a Healthcare Provider.
  • Diagnosis.
  • Treatment.
  • Prevention.
  • Summary.
  • A Word From Verywell.
    • Q&A