Dealing with aching legs can be bothersome. Many people experience this common issue. These aches can disrupt daily life, causing significant physical discomfort. There are multiple reasons why your legs might hurt, like when your muscles are tired, if they swell up, or problems with blood flow.
Common Causes of Aching Legs
- Participating in intense physical activities or workouts without proper conditioning can result in muscle fatigue and aching legs.
- Excessive use or pushing your muscles too hard without adequate rest can lead to soreness and aching sensations.
- Injuries like sprains, strains, and muscle tears can lead to discomfort and soreness in the legs.
- Impaired blood flow caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD) or varicose veins can result in aching legs.
- Medical conditions such as fibromyalgia, restless legs syndrome, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can lead to leg discomfort.
- Lack of proper hydration can cause muscular cramps and discomfort.
Effective Remedies for Aching Legs
- Sufficient rest and recovery following physical activities enable muscles to heal and alleviate discomfort.
- Regular stretching before and after physical activity promotes increased flexibility, alleviates muscle tension, and helps prevent discomfort.
- Staying properly hydrated preserves electrolyte equilibrium and safeguards against muscle cramps and unease.
- Compression garments such as socks or stockings can enhance blood flow and alleviate leg discomfort.
- Lifting your legs above the level of your heart supports blood circulation in the direction of the heart, easing any discomfort felt in the legs.
- Massaging the legs can enhance blood flow, promote muscle relaxation, and alleviate any feelings of discomfort.
- Over-the-counter painkillers are a temporary remedy for leg pain caused by inflammation.
- Knowing when to seek medical attention is vital.
If your legs hurt and look swollen, red, or numb, it’s important to see a doctor. A podiatrist can assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of disorders, injuries, and deformities of the foot and ankle.
Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.