What causes calf pain. How can calf pain be treated effectively. What are the best prevention methods for calf muscle discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for leg pain. How do different conditions affect calf muscles. What exercises help alleviate calf pain. How does lifestyle impact calf health.

Understanding Calf Muscle Anatomy and Function

The calf muscles, located on the back of the lower leg, play a crucial role in our ability to walk, run, and perform various physical activities. To comprehend calf pain, it’s essential to understand the anatomy and function of these muscles.

The calf is primarily composed of two muscles:

• Gastrocnemius: The larger, more superficial muscle
• Soleus: The smaller, deeper muscle

These muscles work together to flex the foot downward (plantar flexion) and assist in knee flexion. They are connected to the heel bone by the Achilles tendon, which is the largest and strongest tendon in the body.

Given their importance in locomotion and daily activities, calf muscles are susceptible to various forms of stress and injury. Understanding the underlying causes of calf pain is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

Common Causes of Calf Pain: From Mild to Severe

Calf pain can range from a minor nuisance to a sign of a serious medical condition. Here are some of the most common causes:

Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions of the calf muscles. They can be caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or overexertion. While usually harmless, persistent cramps may indicate an underlying health issue.

Muscle Strain

Overstretching or putting excessive pressure on the calf can lead to a muscle strain. Symptoms include a dull ache that worsens with movement, swelling, redness, and difficulty rising on toes.

Achilles Tendinitis

This condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon. It typically causes pain in the back of the leg, worsening after activity and causing stiffness in the morning.

Baker’s Cyst

A Baker’s cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms behind the knee, often due to injury or arthritis. It can cause swelling and pain that extends into the calf.

Sciatica

When the sciatic nerve in the lower back is pinched or inflamed, it can cause burning pain that radiates down one or both legs, including the calf area.

Chronic Compartment Syndrome

This condition occurs when pressure builds up within the muscles, reducing blood flow. It often results from excessive physical activity and can cause cramping or pain in the calf.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT is a serious condition where a blood clot forms deep inside the leg. It can cause the calf to ache, feel warm, and appear red. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing Calf Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention

While many instances of calf pain can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant a visit to a healthcare professional. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest
• Swelling that persists or worsens
• Redness or warmth in the calf area
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg
• Pain accompanied by fever or other systemic symptoms

A healthcare provider will typically perform a physical examination and may order additional tests such as:

1. Ultrasound or MRI to visualize soft tissues
2. X-rays to rule out bone-related issues
3. Blood tests to check for inflammation or blood clots

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan and preventing potential complications.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Calf Pain

The treatment for calf pain depends on its underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

RICE Method

For many mild to moderate calf injuries, the RICE method is an effective first-line treatment:

• Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain
• Ice: Apply cold packs to reduce inflammation
• Compression: Use elastic bandages to minimize swelling
• Elevation: Raise the affected leg above heart level when resting

Medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary.

Physical Therapy

A physical therapist can design a program of exercises and stretches to improve flexibility, strength, and overall function of the calf muscles.

Massage and Manual Therapy

Gentle massage can help relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow to the affected area. Professional massage or manual therapy may be beneficial for more persistent cases.

Alternative Therapies

Some individuals find relief through alternative treatments such as acupuncture or yoga. While scientific evidence for these approaches is limited, they may provide symptomatic relief for some people.

Surgery

In rare cases, such as severe chronic compartment syndrome or persistent Baker’s cysts, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Your Calves Healthy

Preventing calf pain is often easier than treating it. Here are some strategies to maintain healthy calf muscles:

Proper Warm-up and Stretching

Before engaging in physical activity, warm up your muscles with light cardio and gentle stretches. This can help prevent strains and cramps.

Gradual Intensity Increase

When starting a new exercise regimen or increasing your activity level, do so gradually. This allows your muscles to adapt and reduces the risk of overuse injuries.

Hydration and Nutrition

Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can help prevent muscle cramps and support overall muscle health.

Appropriate Footwear

Wear shoes that provide proper support and cushioning for your feet and legs, especially during high-impact activities.

Regular Exercise

Consistent, moderate exercise can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility, reducing the risk of injury.

The Role of Lifestyle Factors in Calf Health

Various lifestyle factors can significantly impact calf health and the likelihood of experiencing pain or discomfort:

Occupation

Jobs that require prolonged standing or walking can put additional stress on the calf muscles. If your work involves these activities, consider using supportive footwear and taking regular breaks to stretch and rest your legs.

Weight Management

Excess body weight can increase the load on your leg muscles and joints. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of calf pain and other musculoskeletal issues.

Smoking

Smoking can impair blood circulation, potentially contributing to muscle pain and increasing the risk of conditions like deep vein thrombosis. Quitting smoking can have numerous benefits for overall health, including improved muscle function.

Sleep and Recovery

Adequate sleep and rest are crucial for muscle recovery and overall health. Ensure you’re getting enough quality sleep each night to support your body’s natural healing processes.

Exercises and Stretches for Calf Health

Incorporating specific exercises and stretches into your routine can help maintain calf health and prevent pain. Here are some effective options:

Calf Raises

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and slowly rise onto your toes, then lower back down. This exercise strengthens the calf muscles and improves stability.

Wall Stretch

Place your hands against a wall and step one foot back, keeping it straight. Lean forward, bending the front knee while keeping the back heel on the ground. Hold for 30 seconds to stretch the calf muscle.

Seated Calf Stretch

Sit on the floor with your legs extended. Loop a towel around the ball of one foot and gently pull it towards you, feeling the stretch in your calf. Hold for 30 seconds on each side.

Foam Rolling

Use a foam roller to massage your calf muscles, helping to release tension and improve flexibility.

Remember to perform these exercises and stretches gently, especially if you’re experiencing calf pain. If any movement causes discomfort, stop immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

When Calf Pain Signals Serious Conditions

While most cases of calf pain are benign, certain symptoms may indicate more serious underlying conditions that require immediate medical attention:

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT is a potentially life-threatening condition. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Sudden swelling in one leg
• Warmth and redness in the calf area
• Pain that worsens when standing or walking

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

PAD occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked. Symptoms may include:

• Cramping pain in the legs during activity
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Changes in skin color or temperature

Compartment Syndrome

This condition involves increased pressure within a muscle compartment. Acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency. Watch for:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest
• Numbness or tingling in the affected area
• Pale or shiny skin over the calf

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and improve outcomes.

Understanding the various causes and treatments for calf pain can help you maintain healthy, pain-free legs. By implementing preventive strategies, staying attuned to your body’s signals, and seeking appropriate care when needed, you can effectively manage and prevent calf discomfort. Remember, while many cases of calf pain are benign and self-limiting, persistent or severe pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.

Why Does My Calf Muscle Hurt?

Medically Reviewed by Sabrina Felson, MD on February 10, 2023

There’s a group of muscles on the back of each lower leg that doctors call “calf muscles.” They play a key role in helping you walk and run. Lots of things can make them hurt, from a minor sprain to more serious problems like deep vein thrombosis.

If you work your calf muscle too much, you can get a sudden pain in your leg. A muscle cramp can also happen if you hold a position too long or haven’t had enough water to drink. Most cramps are harmless and improve if you massage yourself, do gentle stretching, and apply a warm towel or heating pad. If it doesn’t get better, call your doctor. Although rare, muscle cramps can be caused by other health issues, like compressed nerves.

Stretch too far or put too much pressure on your calf, and you can strain your muscle. If so, you’ll have a dull ache that worsens when you move. Swelling, redness, or a bruise are also common, and it may hurt to rise up on your toes. Rest and ice can help. When you sit, try to raise your calf higher than hip height. You’ll also need to be patient. A pulled muscle can take up to 6 weeks to completely heal.

Your Achilles tendon connects your calf muscle to your heel bone. If it gets injured, you’ll feel an ache in the back of your leg that’s worse after you’re active. Your calf could also feel stiff and sore in the morning. Achilles tendinitis often improves with treatment called RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). If not, your doctor may suggest physical therapy.

Fluid inside your knee helps it move smoothly, but an injury or arthritis can cause too much to build up in the back of your knee. If you have a Baker’s cyst, you’ll notice swelling and may not be able to straighten your knee. Swelling and redness can also spread to your calf. Sometimes, a Baker’s cyst goes away on its own. If not, your doctor may need to look for, and treat, the condition causing it.

If the sciatic nerve in your lower back gets pinched or inflamed, you’ll feel a burning pain down one, or both, of your legs. Sciatica pain can come and go. It may also get worse after you stand or walk. Ice packs, applied 20 minutes at a time, can help, as can over-the-counter pain medicine. You may also try massage, acupuncture, or yoga. If you still hurt, your doctor may suggest a steroid shot.

Inside your legs are pockets of muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. Excessive activity, like too much running, can cause bleeding or swelling inside them. If you have chronic compartment syndrome, a pressure buildup inside your muscles causes your blood flow to go down. Your calf may cramp or hurt when you move. You may see swelling or a muscle bulge. A break from the activity can help. In severe cases, you might need surgery.

If you stand or walk a lot, the pressure on your legs can cause varicose veins in one or both calves. These thick, bulging veins can cause pain, burning, swelling, and itching. Compression stockings can help. So can movement and exercise, which help pump blood from the calf. You can also prop up your leg when you sit, and try not to sit or stand for too long. Your doctor may also treat it by closing up or shrinking the veins.

Sometimes, a blood clot forms deep inside your leg. If so, your calf may ache and feel warm. The skin may also look red. Obesity can put you at risk for DVT. So can pregnancy, smoking, and sitting for long amounts of time. If a clot in your leg breaks loose, it can travel to your lungs and cause severe issues, so if you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away.

Calf pain can be a sign that your calfmuscles aren’t getting enough blood. If you have a problem called claudication, your legs will hurt when you’re active, and your feet, thighs, hips, and bottom may also ache. Your doctor can run tests to see how well blood flows to your lower limbs. Some types of medicine can help ease symptoms and prevent other problems. Talk to your doctor about getting regular exercise to ease the pain.

The most common cause of this problem is spinal stenosis — a narrowing of spaces in your spine that puts pressure on nerves. You can have pain, tingling, or cramps in your legs, as well as your hips and bottom. It could get worse when you stand or walk, but will stop if you sit or lean forward. If you have neurogenic claudication, you may need surgery to ease the pressure on your nerves

Although it’s not common, germs sometimes get into your bones and cause an infection, known as osteomyelitis. When the infection is in a lower leg bone, you’ll notice redness, swelling, and warmth in your calf. You may also have a fever and fatigue. If lab and imaging tests confirm that you have a bone infection, you may need antibiotics for treatment. 

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

1) ibrakovic / Getty Images

2) KeremYucel / Getty Images

3) Tom Merton / Getty Images

4) Medical Body Scans / Science Source

5) Dr P. Marazzi / Science Source

6) wildpixel / Getty Images

7) Brian Evans / Science Source

8) Fertnig / Getty Images

9) Molly Borman / Science Source

10) Living Art Enterprises / Science Source

11) WebMD

12) nebari / Getty Images

13) Sutthaburawonk / Getty Images

14) KATERYNA KON / Science Source

SOURCES:

Mayo Clinic: “Muscle Cramp,” “Achilles Tendinitis,” “Baker’s Cyst,” “Osteomyelitis,” “Deep Vein Thrombosis,” “Claudication,” “Broken Leg,” “Varicose Vein,” “Spinal stenosis. “

OrthoInfo/American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: “Compartment Syndrome.”

Cleveland Clinic: “Sciatica,” “Sciatica: Management and Treatment.”

NHS Trust/Oxford University Hospitals: “Calf Strain Advice: Information for Patients.”

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: “Peripheral Neuropathy.”

Columbia Neurological Surgery: “Neurogenic Claudication,” “Treatments for Neurogenic Claudication.”

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Calf pain usually results from a muscle cramp or injury. However, it can also stem from a vascular problem, such as a blood clot, a pinched nerve, tendon damage, and other issues.

There are a variety of conditions that can affect the calf muscles, as well as the blood vessels and other structures around it. Fortunately, many of the causes of calf pain are easily treatable.

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

1. Muscle cramp

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

Calf muscle cramps are usually temporary but can cause significant pain and discomfort.

Causes of calf muscle cramps include:

• dehydration
• a loss of electrolytes through sweating
• lack of stretching
• prolonged physical activity
• weak muscles

2. Muscle strain

A calf muscle strain occurs when the muscle fibers in the calf tear either partially or completely.

The symptoms will vary depending on the severity of the strain, but most people will experience sudden, sharp pain and tenderness at the calf muscle site.

3. Arterial claudication

A person may experience calf pain due to narrowing or blockages in the arteries that supply blood flow to the legs. This is known as arterial claudication.

Arterial claudication may cause pain while walking, as this movement requires blood to flow to the lower legs.

If the blood has difficulty moving due to narrowing (claudication), a person may experience calf pain.

A person with arterial claudication will experience no discomfort at rest, but pain after a few minutes of walking.

4. Neurogenic claudication

Neurogenic claudication occurs when the nerves that go to the legs are pinched, affecting their ability to communicate with the lower legs.

Neurogenic claudication is often due to a condition called spinal stenosis.This condition occurs when the bones in the spinal column narrow, placing extra pressure on the nerves. Sciatica is one example of neurogenic claudication.

In addition to calf pain, neurogenic claudication symptoms include:

• pain while walking
• pain after prolonged standing
• pain that also occurs in the thighs, lower back, or buttocks
• pain that usually improves when a person leans forward at the waist

A person may also experience calf pain from neurogenic claudication when at rest.

5. Achilles tendinitis

The Achilles tendon is a tough, fibrous band that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone.

If a person’s calf muscles are especially tight, this may put extra pressure on the Achilles tendon. As a result, a person can experience calf pain.

People are more likely to experience Achilles tendinitis if they have recently started an exercise program or they perform repetitive exercises.

Frequent stretching can often help to reduce symptoms.

6. Compartment syndrome

Persistent pain in the calf should be addressed by a doctor.

Compartment syndrome is a painful condition that can occur in the calf muscle or in both legs, usually after a person has experienced a trauma or severe injury.

It occurs when excess blood or fluid builds up underneath a band of tough tissues in the body that cannot stretch very well. This fluid places extra pressure on the nerves and blood vessels in the lower leg, causing pain, swelling, numbness, and tingling.

Another form of compartment syndrome is chronic or exertional compartment syndrome. This type occurs when a person experiences pain while exercising.

Symptoms associated with chronic compartment syndrome include numbness, visible bulging or enlarging of muscles, or trouble moving the foot.

7. Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that occurs when a person experiences nerve damage related to diabetes.

Frequently high blood sugar levels can damage the body’s nerves, usually beginning with the hands and feet.

Sometimes, the tingling and numbness can cause shooting pain and discomfort that radiates to the calf muscles.

8. Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects the plantar fascia tissue located on the bottom of the foot.

If the calf muscles are too tight, a person may be more likely to experience plantar fascia because the calf muscles cannot support the foot.

The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis are foot pain when waking and difficulty flexing the foot.

9. Varicose veins

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that often bulge from the legs and may look like cords. They develop when damaged valves in a person’s veins allow blood to backflow.

Factors that contribute to varicose veins include:

• age
• a family history of varicose veins
• hormone fluctuations
• pregnancy
• obesity
• lack of physical activity

Varicose most commonly appear in the legs and can cause pain, throbbing, cramping, and aching.

10. Deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the result of a blood clot that forms in one of the veins in the leg. This condition can cause severe pain and affect blood flow to the legs.

People are more likely to develop DVT if they have been sitting for long periods, such as on a flight, or if they have high blood pressure or blood clotting disorders.

Symptoms of DVT include calf pain that usually gets worse when standing or walking. A person’s leg may also swell and have a red or inflamed area due to the problems with blood flow.

Treatment for calf pain will depend on the underlying cause.

People can treat calf pain that is the result of injury or overuse using the PRICE method. This stands for:

• Protection: Apply a cloth bandage, splint, or immobilizer to the foot, ankle, or calf to protect the injury and allow the muscles to rest.
• Rest: Avoid using the calf muscle more than necessary.
• Ice: Apply a cloth-covered ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes at a time to help reduce inflammation. Ice packs are available to buy in pharmacies and online.
• Compression: Wrap the calf in a stretchy, tight bandage or wear a compression stocking to reduce swelling.
• Elevation: Elevate the leg on pillows to help promote circulation and reduce swelling.

Other causes of calf pain may be treated with medications or other medical procedures, depending on the underlying cause.

Warming up by walking at a moderate pace before engaging in more intense exercise can help to prevent muscle strain injuries.

In addition to these measures, a person may also choose to do some gentle stretching to reduce muscle tightness after exercise.

A person should always check with their doctor before beginning a stretching routine to ensure the stretches will not aggravate an injury.

Useful stretches for calf pain include:

Stretching after exercising may also help to prevent muscle tightness and discomfort.

A person should seek emergency medical treatment if they suspect they have DVT. The symptoms of DVT include pain, swelling, and warmth in one leg.

Other signs a person should seek emergency treatment for calf pain include:

• fever that is greater than 100°F
• swollen leg that is pale or cool to the touch
• sudden extreme swelling in the legs

Some causes of calf pain warrant a trip to the doctor’s office during regular business hours. These include:

• pain while walking
• unexplained leg swelling
• varicose veins that are very painful
• symptoms that do not get better after a few days of at-home care

If a person has concerns about bothersome or ongoing calf pain, making an appointment to see a doctor can help provide peace of mind.

A doctor will carry out a physical examination to determine whether a pulled or strained muscle is the problem.

If the doctor finds that the issue is more severe, they may order a musculoskeletal ultrasound scan. An ultrasound would be able to identify the following:

• arterial claudication
• Achilles tendinitis
• diabetic neuropathy
• plantar fascia
• deep vein thrombosis

A musculoskeletal ultrasound can also provide guidance regarding injection therapy.

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Pain in the calves after running and walking, causes and methods of pain treatment

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If your calves hurt after running, this is an indicator of stress on the muscles involved. Pain increases with increasing muscle stress. In people who are unprepared for stress, as well as those who have violated the rules and techniques of playing sports, the calf muscles will certainly hurt. In addition, such discomfort may indicate the existence of some health problems. To exclude negative manifestations, it is necessary to understand the causes of malaise, if possible, eliminate them.

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The methods used in our clinic are safe and have no side effects.

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Treatment minimizes the risk of new hernias in other segments, as well as hernia recurrence.

Types of muscle pain after exercise

Classify several types of pain that occur after sports training:

Why calves hurt after running: possible causes

There are two groups of factors causing pain:

• Physiological. A variant of the norm that does not require medical treatment. It occurs when overloading, sprains, wearing uncomfortable shoes. Physiological causes include lack of oxygen (muscle hypoxia), excess lactic acid formed during exercise, muscle microtrauma;
• Pathological. Violation of the body systems, requiring medical supervision, treatment. Possible diseases: varicose veins, venous insufficiency, vascular thrombosis, osteochondrosis and others.

Ignoring pathological causes can lead to exacerbation of diseases, the development of severe lesions and inflammation, and disability of the patient. Persistent pain is a clear signal of the body about trouble.

Diagnosis and examinations

Pain that does not resolve on its own after exercise requires a visit to a doctor. About how to treat pain in the calves, the specialist will tell after the diagnosis. Conducted:

• blood and urine laboratory tests:
• Ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities;
• MRI of legs and spine;
• electroneuromyography, instrumental diagnostics for assessing muscle contractility;
• joint puncture.

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• Chiropractor
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• Osteopath
• Neurologist

During the consultation, we carry out a thorough diagnosis of the entire spine and each segment. We are for sure
we determine which segments and nerve roots are involved and cause symptoms of pain. As a result of the consultation
We give detailed recommendations for treatment and, if necessary, prescribe additional diagnostics.

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We will perform functional diagnostics of the spine

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Let’s perform a manipulation that significantly relieves pain

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Treatment of calf pain

The types of treatment depend on the identified pathology.

If a micronutrient deficiency has been identified by a screening examination as the cause of a malfunction in the body of a person involved in sports, it is necessary to start taking the missing substances.

Pain in the calves caused by high levels of lactic acid is relieved by simple manipulations: warming up before starting physical education, breaks during training, massaging the limbs after training, taking a hot vasodilating bath.

If the diagnosis showed that the calves are very sore as a symptom of chronic diseases: diabetes, kidney pathology or others, then the treatment is focused on the underlying disease. The doctor develops therapy tactics, recommends drug or non-drug methods. Surgery is rarely required. Conventional conservative methods effectively eliminate inflammatory processes, promote the elimination of toxins, strengthen ligaments, improve blood circulation, relieve swelling and pain.

The most effective:

• Physiotherapy: treatment with magnets, currents, cold, other;
• Massage: course treatment that relieves muscle spasm, improves tissue tone, elasticity, normalizes metabolic processes;
• Acupuncture: reduces swelling and muscle tension, activates the work of joints, muscle tissue.

Prevention

Usually, if the calves hurt after running, a person is not in a hurry to immediately consult a doctor, except in cases of a pronounced injury or unbearable unrelenting pain. What to do to minimize unpleasant mild sensations: light self-massage, rest, fluid intake or baths with medicinal herbs will help.

Doctors recommend the following preventive measures to protect the lower extremities from pain or the development of dangerous pathologies:

• Wear comfortable shoes without heels;
• Balanced nutrition;
• Weight control;
• Regular exercise;
• Periods of sedentary activity with breaks of 5-10 minutes every hour.

If the pain is severe, you can use medical pain relief creams, ointments, gels, or take an analgesic tablet. Remember that severe pain is a dangerous symptom that requires an immediate visit to a specialist.

Treating calf pain at Dr. Length’s clinic

If you have pain in your calves after running, contact the renowned pain specialists at Dr. Length’s well-known clinic in Moscow. Doctors will conduct a comprehensive diagnosis to identify the cause of the ailment, establish an accurate diagnosis, and give professional recommendations for the effective treatment of the disease. The highly professional assistance of specialists who have undergone training and advanced training in the world’s leading centers – leaders in the treatment of painful symptoms of any origin, will help to quickly relieve pain and restore a full quality of life. For clinic patients:

• effective international treatment using innovative technologies;
• use of modern diagnostic and treatment equipment and the latest safe medicines;
• services of experienced doctors;
• elimination of pain manifestations from the first sessions of therapy;
• attentive staff and comfortable environment.

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FAQ

Which doctor should I contact for calf pain?

It’s a good idea to get a wellness check-up and lab tests before you start going to a fitness center or running. To do this, it is enough to visit the local therapist. If you experience any kind of discomfort during physical activity, you should immediately contact a trainer, instructor or sports medicine doctor. If the classes are self-guided, pay a visit to the general practitioner. Even if the negative symptoms pass quickly, leaving no visible consequences, you can get practical advice from specialists on organizing classes, drinking and eating, normalizing work and rest, which will reduce painful manifestations and also increase the effectiveness of your workouts.

How to quickly help yourself if your calves hurt after running?

Quick and effective self-help measures:

• apply cold to the calves, preferably ice;
• raise legs;
• apply a compression bandage.

What is the role of water and nutrition in causing pain?

Pain in the calves can be provoked by an insufficiently active metabolic processes. The inclusion of vitamins B and C, microelements: calcium, potassium, magnesium in the athlete’s diet helps to establish metabolism. Foods with vitamin E found in greens, nuts, beans or eggs will help strengthen the walls of blood vessels.

Water stimulates the removal of salts and toxins, regenerates tissues after intensive training. Dehydration is manifested by spastic pain after exercise. Water intake should be increased to three liters daily. You can take several sips during the session itself.

What technical errors lead to pain after running?

If you move your legs according to the technology of safe running, you can completely eliminate pain after a run. Adjust Steps:

• step on a full foot, do not run on your toes;
• run straight without leaning forward;
• take frequent short steps and low jumps, it is the violation of this rule that hurts the calves from the inside;
• when accelerating, do not increase the length of the step, but accelerate the movement of the legs.

How to choose the right shoes for running without pain?

If your calves hurt after running without any health problems, you should choose comfortable and proper shoes. Selection principles:

• the sole must have the same thickness throughout;
• leg fixation should be as rigid as possible, excluding microtrauma;
• ideal for the purchase of sneakers for a certain type of coverage;
• in order not to disturb the microcirculation of the blood, wear running shoes on a bare foot without tight socks or golf.

Avoid running on paved paths, trails with frequent uphill or downhill runs, or on sand.

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I went to the clinic with severe pain in my shoulder. My hand did not rise, I could not sleep at night, I woke up from pain. After the first treatment session, I felt much better. Somewhere in the middle of the course, my hand began to rise, I began to sleep at night.

Arthrosis of the knee joint, 2nd degree

She came in with a very serious illness. I could not walk, I have arthrosis of the 2nd degree of the knee joint. I went through a course of treatment at the Clinic and now I am going 100%.

Herniated disc

“I came to the clinic after I had back pain and it turned out to be a herniated disc. I went to other places, but they only relieved attacks of pain. Hope for a return to normal life was given only by Sergei Vladimirovich, his golden hands!

Scoliosis

“Since I was a teenager, I have suffered from scoliosis in the thoracic region. I felt a feeling of discomfort, tension, periodic pain in the spine. I turned to various specialists, a massage therapist, an osteopath, but I did not feel a strong effect. After treatment, Length S.V. I almost have a straight spine. Currently, I do not feel any problems and discomfort.”

Intervertebral hernia

“At the 5th-6th session there was an improvement. I felt much better. The pain is gone. Improvement progressed more and more each time. Lesson 10 today. I feel great.”

Pain in the lumbar and cervical region

“I am 21 years old. I went to the clinic with discomfort in the lumbar and cervical region. I also sometimes had sharp pains. After undergoing therapy, I felt a significant improvement in my back. I have no pain. The condition as a whole has improved.”

Pain in the back

“At the beginning of the path of treatment, my back hurt very badly. I could no longer walk. I take 5 steps and stop. My entire journey consisted of such stops. In the very first procedure, I left the office with no pain in my spine. ”

Cervical hernia

“I came in with a problem in my neck and my right arm was very sore. The neck did not turn, the hand did not rise. After the 3rd session, I felt better. After the 5th, all this pain began to decrease. It turns out I have 2 hernias in my cervical vertebrae. After the sessions, I did an MRI and one hernia decreased. Now he began to move, his hand earned.

Pain in the neck

“I went to Dr. Long because I had a very bad pain in my neck on the right side. I fell on a snowboard 5 years ago, even went to an osteopath, but somehow it didn’t really help. Now everything is fine, there are some consequences left, the muscles were spasmodic. When I came, I had steel muscles, now my neck is very soft.”

Pain in the thoracic region

“I went to the clinic with back pain, namely in the thoracic region. After 10 sessions of treatment, I could already calmly go about my usual business, sit at work until lunch, without howling in pain. Now I’ve come back for an adjustment after 2 months. I’m fine, my back doesn’t hurt.”

Hernia and protrusion

“I came to the clinic with L4-L5 hernia and L5-S1 protrusion. Today the course of treatment has ended. Lower back hurt, it was difficult to bend down. After completing the course and receiving instructions in the form of physical exercises, it became much easier. After a month of treatment, I do not feel any stiffness of movements. ”

Pain in the lower back and hip joint

“From a young age, I was troubled by back pain. When they became unbearable, I went to Dr. Length’s clinic. Already after the first procedure, the pain in the hip joint was gone. After the third procedure, the shooting pains in the lower back stopped.

Applying today will help

avoid surgery tomorrow!

Relieve pain and inflammation

After 2-3 treatments, exhausting pain disappears and you feel better.

Eliminate the cause of the disease

Comprehensive rehabilitation of the spine improves well-being: you feel a surge of strength and energy.

Let’s start the regeneration process

The process of restoration of damaged tissues begins, hernias and protrusions decrease.

Strengthen the muscular corset

Strong back muscles support the spinal column, preventing the recurrence of the disease.

We treat

• Treatment of protrusion of the lumbar spine with modern methods
• Chronic fibromyalgia of the back
• Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) – modern methods of treatment
• Orthopedic insoles
• Antelesthesis of the vertebrae
• Sacral hernia: symptoms and treatment

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Reviews about us on Yandex Maps

Why legs hurt causes and treatment

Pain in the legs, unfortunately, is familiar to many, and it worries not only the elderly. It is impossible to unequivocally answer the question of why the legs hurt so much. What to do in this case? – There can be many causes of pain – from simple fatigue with high physical exertion or uncomfortable shoes to injuries and serious illnesses. In the first case, it is enough to rest or change shoes, and everything will pass. In the event of an injury, a recovery period is required. If the pain in the legs is constantly disturbing, you should undergo an examination in the clinic. Moreover, the sooner you see a doctor, the easier it will be to cope with the disease.

Possible causes of pain in the legs:

• Trauma (contusion, fracture, sprain, etc.).
• Disease of the spine, accompanied by pinching of the nerve roots, leading to shooting pains in the leg.
• Arthritis or arthrosis resulting in damage to the joints of the legs.
• Disease of the blood vessels of the lower extremities. One of the most common disorders of the vascular system is varicose veins. With untimely treatment, it can develop into thrombophlebitis, the final stage of which is vessel thrombosis. Thrombosis is not only accompanied by a sharp pain in the leg, but also threatens with more serious consequences – blockage of the veins of the lower extremities or even pulmonary embolism. Atherosclerosis of the arteries of the lower extremities is also widespread, accompanied by pain in the calf muscles. Instead of pain, cramps may develop, heaviness in the legs can be felt.
• Damage to muscle tissue (muscle inflammation, fibromyalgia, etc.).

The nature of pain in the leg may differ in various diseases, it can be aching, acute, appear below the knee or in the thigh area, etc. To determine the cause of the pain, it is necessary to analyze other symptoms, as well as undergo certain diagnostic tests. To do this, you need to see a doctor. If spider veins appear or other manifestations of blood vessel diseases are obvious, you should make an appointment with a phlebologist. If it is impossible to determine the cause of the pain on your own, you can contact a therapist, after examination he will refer you to a neuropathologist, phlebologist or other doctor.

The First Phlebological Center in Moscow provides diagnostics and treatment of vascular diseases. Experienced doctors and modern equipment help to achieve effective results in diseases of varying degrees. But still, you should not wait until your legs hurt very much. Timely contacting the clinic will help to cure the disease in the early stages, preventing serious complications.

Diseases of the veins at the initial stage are not accompanied by visible changes. The first symptoms may be pain in the leg, excessive muscle tension, a feeling of heaviness, swelling. Later, inflammation of the skin over the affected area is observed, and the pain intensifies. Previously invisible veins bulge above the surface of the skin. The inflammatory process may be accompanied by thrombus formation.