Potential Causes of Chronic Leg Pain
Pain in the leg is quite common these days. Some might have this pain due to an injury and some might for their weight or due to overexertion of the legs. Most of the time, this pain dies down after a short period of time and, in some cases, it can be eased up with some home remedies. However, if you are having chronic leg pain then you should consult a doctor. Sometimes, severe and persistent leg pain can be an indication for an underlying medical issue, though there are some possible causes behind chronic leg pain. Let’s have a closer look at them.
Muscle Strain
It is one of the more common causes of chronic leg pain. Due to overstretching of a certain muscle, the fibers in it tear, which results in the excruciating pain the leg. Mostly, this happens on the muscles that are larger in size. Calves, quadriceps, and hamstrings are some of those muscles that are prone to muscle strains.
Tendinitis
Tendons are those thick chords that connect bones to muscles. Tendinitis occurs when these tendons become inflamed. This inflammation makes the movement of the affected joint difficult. The tendons near the heel bone or hamstrings are more prone to tendinitis.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is that condition in which the arteries get narrow and hard due to the accumulation of fat and cholesterol. The blood rich in oxygen gets carried by the arteries. If there is any blockage in it, the blood flow will reduce in various parts of the body. When the tissues in your legs don’t receive the required oxygen, it will result in pain and this could be one of the factors for your chronic leg pain.
Arthritis
Arthritis affects the joints in the hips and knees. It is an inflammation of these joints and will cause redness in the affected area, pain, and swelling. One of the primary causes of chronic leg pain is arthritis.
Gout
Gout is also a type of arthritis. It mainly happens when there is an excess amount of uric acid in the body. It will have the same effects as arthritis but on the lower part of the leg.
These are some of the medical conditions and injuries that could be the reason for chronic and severe leg pain. You can also consult your doctor to confirm that there is no underlying medical issue.