What are the signs of a blood clot in the calf muscle. How does deep vein thrombosis develop. Who is at risk for DVT. What complications can arise from untreated DVT. How is post-thrombotic syndrome related to DVT. Can DVT increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. What preventive measures can reduce DVT risk.

Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A Comprehensive Guide

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in deep veins, typically in the legs. These clots can partially or completely obstruct blood flow, leading to various symptoms and potential complications. This article delves into the intricacies of DVT, exploring its symptoms, causes, risk factors, and long-term effects.

Recognizing the Symptoms of DVT: Key Indicators to Watch For

Identifying the symptoms of DVT is crucial for early detection and treatment. Here are some of the primary signs to be aware of:

Pain and Cramping in the Affected Area

One of the most common symptoms of DVT is pain or cramping in the affected limb, often in the calf muscle. This discomfort results from the blood clot obstructing normal blood flow, causing the blood to pool and stretch surrounding tissues. The pain may range from mild to severe and can be accompanied by a feeling of tightness or pressure.

Skin Changes: Redness and Warmth

DVT can cause noticeable changes in the appearance and temperature of the skin over the affected area. The skin may appear reddish, bluish, or purplish, and feel warm to the touch. These changes typically occur over a larger area rather than a localized spot, distinguishing DVT from other conditions like superficial clots or Baker’s cysts.

Swelling and Edema

Swelling, also known as edema, is another common symptom of DVT. The affected limb may appear larger than normal due to the accumulation of fluid caused by impaired blood flow. This swelling can be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected area.

Mild Fever

Some individuals with DVT may experience a mild fever. While not a definitive indicator of DVT, as fever can be caused by various factors, its presence in conjunction with other symptoms may warrant further investigation. Research has shown that fever in DVT patients is associated with an increased risk of complications, such as pulmonary embolisms or infections.

The Dangers of Untreated DVT: Potential Complications

Left untreated, DVT can lead to serious complications that can be life-threatening. Understanding these risks emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment.

Pulmonary Embolism: A Life-Threatening Complication

One of the most severe complications of DVT is pulmonary embolism (PE). This occurs when a fragment of the blood clot breaks off and travels through the bloodstream, lodging in an artery in the lungs. Symptoms of PE can include:

• Sudden breathlessness
• Sharp chest pain
• Rapid heartbeat
• Coughing up blood

PE is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, as it can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Post-thrombotic Syndrome: Long-term Consequences of DVT

Even after initial treatment, some individuals who have experienced DVT may develop post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). This chronic condition results from damage to the veins and valves caused by the blood clot. Symptoms of PTS include:

• Chronic swelling in the affected limb
• Persistent pain or discomfort
• Skin discoloration and texture changes
• Varicose veins
• Ulcers in severe cases

PTS can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and may require ongoing management and treatment.

The Link Between DVT and Cardiovascular Health

Recent research has uncovered a concerning connection between DVT and long-term cardiovascular risks. A Danish study revealed that individuals who have experienced DVT face an increased risk of heart attack and stroke in the years following the event.

Elevated Heart Attack and Stroke Risk

The study found that within one year of a DVT episode, individuals had:

• A 60% increased risk of heart attack
• More than double the risk of stroke

For those who had experienced a pulmonary embolism, the risks were even higher:

• Twice the likelihood of having a heart attack
• Three times the risk of stroke within the first year

These findings underscore the importance of long-term monitoring and preventive measures for individuals with a history of DVT or PE.

Risk Factors for DVT: Who is Most Susceptible?

Understanding the risk factors for DVT can help individuals and healthcare providers take appropriate preventive measures. Some key risk factors include:

Lifestyle and Personal Factors

• Obesity
• Smoking
• Personal or family history of DVT
• Prolonged immobility (e.g., long-distance travel, bed rest)
• Recent surgery or injury
• Pregnancy and postpartum period
• Use of certain medications (e.g., hormone therapy, birth control pills)

Medical Conditions

• Cancer
• Heart failure
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Certain blood disorders

Identifying these risk factors can help individuals take proactive steps to reduce their likelihood of developing DVT.

Preventing DVT: Strategies for Reducing Your Risk

While not all cases of DVT can be prevented, there are several measures individuals can take to reduce their risk:

Stay Active and Mobile

Regular physical activity and avoiding prolonged periods of immobility can help maintain healthy blood flow. For those who must sit for extended periods, such as during long-distance travel, the following strategies can be helpful:

• Perform calf muscle exercises
• Take frequent breaks to walk and stretch
• Stay hydrated
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing

Manage Underlying Health Conditions

Properly managing conditions such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes can help reduce the risk of DVT. This may involve:

• Following a healthy diet
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Adhering to prescribed medications
• Regular check-ups with healthcare providers

Consider Compression Stockings

For individuals at higher risk of DVT, compression stockings may be recommended. These specialized garments help improve blood flow in the legs and reduce the risk of clot formation.

Diagnosing DVT: When to Seek Medical Attention

Early diagnosis of DVT is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. Individuals should seek medical attention if they experience:

• Persistent pain or swelling in one leg
• Noticeable skin changes (redness, warmth, discoloration)
• Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (which may indicate a pulmonary embolism)

Healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tools to confirm DVT, including:

• Duplex ultrasound
• D-dimer blood test
• Venography
• CT scan or MRI in certain cases

Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment, which typically involves anticoagulant medications to prevent clot growth and reduce the risk of complications.

Living with DVT: Long-term Management and Care

For individuals who have experienced DVT, ongoing management and care are essential to prevent recurrence and manage potential long-term effects. This may involve:

Anticoagulation Therapy

Many patients require long-term anticoagulation therapy to prevent future clots. The duration and type of medication will depend on individual factors and should be carefully managed by a healthcare provider.

Regular Follow-up Appointments

Routine check-ups with healthcare providers are important to monitor progress, adjust treatment as needed, and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Lifestyle Modifications

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help manage the risk of future DVT episodes and improve overall cardiovascular health. This may include:

• Regular exercise (as approved by a healthcare provider)
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress

Monitoring for Post-thrombotic Syndrome

Patients should be aware of the signs of post-thrombotic syndrome and report any persistent or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider.

By understanding the symptoms, risks, and management strategies associated with DVT, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their health and reduce the likelihood of complications. Regular communication with healthcare providers and adherence to prescribed treatments are key components of successful long-term management of DVT and its potential effects on cardiovascular health.

The Dangers Of DVT: Don’t Ignore These Signs

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on May 10, 2023.

1. Pain or Cramping

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that occurs in a deep vein. Deep veins lie deep within the body and carry the vast majority of blood back to the heart, in contrast to superficial veins that are sited close to the skin’s surface and carry minimal blood.

A clot in a deep vein can partially or totally obstruct blood flow. This causes the blood to pool and stagnate, stretching tissues and causing symptoms such as pain, cramping, and swelling.

DVTs that form in lower leg veins cause lower calf pain. DVTs can also form in other places in the body such as the arms (symptoms include arm pain) or in the abdomen and pelvis (causing lower back pain).

2. Skin Reddening or a Feeling of Warmth

Blood clots prevent the free flow of blood around the body. Blood pooling can cause color changes in the overlying skin, giving it a bluish, purplish, or reddish tinge. This color change usually happens over an area of skin, not just one localized point (as an example, for DVTs in the lower leg, a significant portion of the skin on the lower calf area changes color). The skin may also feel warm to the touch.

Pain or swelling located in just one small area is more likely to be a superficial clot, especially if you can feel a bump under the skin with your fingers.

Another condition that may resemble a DVT is a Baker’s cyst. These are fluid-filled lumps that occur behind your knee. Symptoms include:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Limited range of motion and ability to bend your knee
• Swelling of your knee and/or leg. Baker’s cysts can also rupture causing swelling and redness in the lower leg.

3. Mild Fever

Some people develop a mild fever when they have a DVT; however, having a fever does not mean you have a DVT as a fever can be caused by other factors such as an infection.

Fever has been associated with an increased risk of complications in people with DVT. One study found pulmonary embolisms (when a bit of the DVT breaks off and lodges itself in the lungs) or infections more common in DVT patients with fever, leading to worse outcomes.

4. Sudden Breathlessness or Coughing up Blood

A real concern with DVTs is their ability to enlarge or fragment and break apart. Fragmentation sends smaller satellite clots into the bloodstream.

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is the name given to a blood clot that wedges in an artery in the lungs. PEs can occur as a complication of DVTs. Other causes of PE include bone injury, cancer, and air emboli. Blockages of small arteries in the lungs starve lung tissue of oxygen. Symptoms vary depending on the extent of the area affected, and range from mild, barely noticeable chest discomfort and mild breathlessness, to sharp, severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, a rapid heartbeat, and coughing up blood.

5. Post-thrombotic Syndrome: Chronic Swelling, Discoloration, and Pain

When a clot completely blocks a deep vein, our body tries to compensate by using neighboring, smaller veins to bypass the obstruction. These collateral veins enlarge as they try to cope with more blood flow than normal. Some become quite large and reasonably effective at returning blood to the heart. Others remain small and are ineffective, and as a result, blood pools in the tissues causing chronic swelling, pressure, and pain. In addition to skin discoloration, texture changes – such as dryness and thickening – occur.

Doctors use several different terms to describe this symptom complex including post-thrombotic syndrome, post-phlebitic syndrome, or venous insufficiency syndrome.

6. DVTs May Increase the Risk of a Heart Attack or Stroke Years Later

Even though a DVT occurs in a deep vein, and heart attacks and strokes occur in arteries, a Danish study found a 60% increased risk of heart attack and a more than doubling of the risk of stroke within one year of a DVT episode.

The news was worse for people who had suffered a PE. Those with a history of PE were twice as likely to have a heart attack and three times more likely to have a stroke in the first year after a PE than people who had never had a PE.

What Are My Risks Of Getting A DVT

People who are obese, smoke, or have a previous personal or family history of DVT are more at risk.

Prolonged immobility also increases risk, for example, being bedridden following surgery, injury, illness, stroke, or long periods of sitting. Whether “Economy Class Syndrome” – the reported increased risk of DVT following long-distance air travel – exists or not is contested – most experts believe the risk lies with prolonged immobilization that can occur with any type of travel – bus, boat, train, or car, rather than just the air cabin environment.

The CDC recommends:

• Calf muscle exercises and sitting in an aisle seat so you can walk up and down the aisle frequently
• People at risk of blood clots should consider properly fitted compression stockings to wear during travel and talk to their doctor about taking medications to reduce their risk of blood clots.
• Conditions that slow blood flow (such as heart failure, varicose veins, and phlebitis), make the blood more likely to clot. Cancer, inherited clotting disorders, pregnancy, or estrogen-containing medicines also increase the risk.

Lowering Your Risk Of A DVT

Every hospital should focus on preventing DVTs in the first place. This means identifying at-risk patients before surgery or during their hospital stay and implementing measures such as mobilization, compression stockings, or use of medications in an attempt to reduce the risk of a DVT forming.

Sometimes this can be challenging, particularly if a person also has factors that increase their risk for bleeding, such as kidney disease, clotting disorders, or a spinal lesion.

Losing weight if you are overweight, stopping smoking, keeping certain conditions (such as heart failure or atrial fibrillation) under good control as well as regular exercise can all help to reduce the risk of a DVT.

Managing A DVT

If you have been diagnosed with a DVT your doctor is likely to put you on an anticoagulant.

Anticoagulants reduce the ability of your blood to clot, in effect “thinning” the blood. This helps prevent the DVT from getting bigger, reduces the risk of additional clots developing, and gives your body time to dissolve the clot. Treatment is usually required for at least three months. Examples of anticoagulants include:

• apixaban (Eliquis)
• dabigatran (Pradaxa)
• dalteparin (Fragmin)
• edoxaban (Savaysa)
• enoxaparin (Lovenox)
• fondaparinux (Arixtra)
• heparin
• rivaroxaban (Xarelto)
• warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).

“Clot busters” (such as Tissue Plasminogen Activator, or TPA) may also be used in intensive care situations to break up severe clots.

References

• Barba R, DeMicco P, Blanco-Molina A, et al. Fever and deep venous thrombosis. Findings from the RIETE registry. J Thromb Thrombolysis. 2011 Oct;32(3):288-92. doi: 10.1007/s11239-011-0604-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21701950
• NHS. Deep Vein Thrombosis. Symptoms. http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Deep-vein-thrombosis/Pages/Symptoms.aspx
• Baker’s Cyst. Cleveland Clinic. 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15183-bakers-cyst
• Reyes N, Beckman M, Abe K. Deep Vein Thrombosis & Pulmonary Embolism. CDC Yellowbook https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/travel-by-air-land-sea/deep-vein-thrombosis-and-pulmonary-embolism

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Medical Disclaimer

Blood clots in legs: Risks and DVT Symptoms

Does running cause blood clots? Weighing the benefits and risks of exercise can be a confusing business. You may have heard stories of strong, healthy runners dropping dead of a heart attack or suffering a pulmonary embolism without any warning. Is this something you need to worry about? 

Part of the problem is the false assumption that the population at greatest risk for blood clots is over 60, obese, and/or smokers. In fact, endurance athletes of all ages as well as athletes participating in contact sports like hockey or football are also a significant risk group. 

Don’t let fear get in your way of better health. Building awareness of blood clots in the general population and even more so among athletes is the key to prevention. Know your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), how to prevent clots from forming, and spot symptoms early to start treatment. 

What is the difference between VTE, DVT, and PE?

Blood clotting is an important process in which your blood coagulates, forming a plug to stop bleeding after a cut or injury. Problems occur when a venous thromboembolism (VTE) – the medical term for a blood clot –  forms within your veins for other reasons. This can happen after long periods of sitting, like on a long flight, or as a result of injury. These clots can then dislodge and move to other areas of your body, obstructing blood flow to important organs. 

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a kind of blood clot that forms in a deeper vein – usually in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis. DVT usually is caused by trauma or infection after an injury or damage to a vein from surgery. 

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot that either moves to your lungs from somewhere else in your body or forms directly in your lungs. This can cause a lack of blood flow that damages lung tissue or result in low blood oxygen levels which harms other organs. Depending on the size and number of clots, a pulmonary embolism can quickly become very dangerous and even life-threatening. 

Who is at highest risk of developing a venous thromboembolism?

Anyone can develop a blood clot, but certain circumstances, behaviors, and genetic predisposition can put you at an increased risk. About 900,000 Americans are affected by blood clots each year, many of those leading to death.⁽¹⁾

In addition to age, obesity, and smoking, the highest risk factors include surgery which may cause damage to a vein, pregnancy, injury resulting in trauma to blood vessels and immobilization, as well as a family history of blood clots. The more risk factors you have, the higher your chance of developing a clot. 

Does running cause blood clots?

There is no question that regular exercise throughout life improves your health. However, the intense and extended training that marathon runners require puts greater stress on the system. This thereby increases the risk of developing blood clots in the legs.

In 1884, German physician Rudolf Virchow defined three main categories of factors that contribute to blood clots. Today it is known as Virchow’s Triad. These factors are grouped into a.) the efficiency of blood flow (circulatory stasis), b.) the integrity of blood vessels (vascular damage), and c. ) composition of blood itself (hypercoagulability).⁽²⁾

Within these three categories there are specific factors that put long-distance runners at a higher risk. These factors include but are not limited to dehydration, inflammation, use of estrogen contraceptives during training or races, and extended sitting during long flights when traveling to races. 

What are the signs and symptoms?

The most common sign of a blood clot in the leg (or arm) is pain that most people describe as a cramp. This may be accompanied by swelling or warmth in the affected area. The skin could also be discolored, appearing reddish or bluish. 

Pulmonary embolism symptoms include shortness of breath, sharp, stabbing chest pain, and feeling faint. You may also experience low blood pressure, a cough, or fever. 

Be aware of these symptoms and don’t ignore them. Although blood clots sometimes dissolve on their own, check with your doctor to see whether you need to start a treatment plan, such as anticoagulant medication.

Treating Blood Clots

See your doctor. It is vital that you assess the risk the clot poses to your health. If the clot is dangerous, you may be prescribed anticoagulants or thrombolytics to dissolve the clot. You can also wear compression stockings, elevate the area, and keep moving. Make sure to drink plenty of water, as dehydration causes your blood to thicken and increases the risk of clots. 

How to prevent blood clots

While we’ve established that running doesn’t cause blood clots, the circumstances in which endurance athletes frequently find themselves do put long-distance runners at a greater risk. 

There are a few things you can do to prevent the formation of blood clots, no matter what your existing risks are. 

5 Prevention Tips

1. Get up and move around regularly. Whether at work, on a plane, or after recovering from an injury or operation, make sure to move your body as much as possible. If you can’t get up and walk, flex your heels and calf muscles every 20 minutes. When you’re at work, see if you can squeeze in a 5 minute workout every hour. Micro workouts also do wonders for your mental health.
2. Stretch regularly throughout the day.
3. Stay hydrated. This should be a priority all the time, but pay particular attention to your water intake when training for a race, traveling, and post workout. 
4. Maintain a healthy weight.
5. Stop smoking.

Takeaway

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Fight clots before they become a problem by being aware of symptoms. Does running cause blood clots? No. But if you are training for marathons or other long-distance competitions, paying attention to warning signs as well as your own genetic predisposition to any kind of venous thromboembolism could save your life. Blood clots can happen to anyone. Be smart, and see your doctor if you notice suspicious cramp-like pain, discoloration, or dizziness. 

***

Symptoms of thrombosis and its complications

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Blood clots are clotted blood clots. Normally, they protect us: if the tissues of the body are damaged, the blood coagulates, the clot stops the bleeding, and then safely resolves. But sometimes things don’t go according to plan.

One of the unfavorable scenarios is when blood clots occur inside the veins. This condition is called vein thrombosis. If such a thrombus breaks off, it enters the general venous circulation and migrates through the heart to the lungs. This condition is called pulmonary embolism (PE).

Understanding the first symptoms of thrombosis and what to do to prevent irreparable.

Thrombosis risk factors

• Early period after trauma and surgery
• Age 65 +
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Overweight
• Increased blood clotting
• Varicose veins

This is what a blood clot looks like in a vein in a patient who was afraid to treat varicose veins

How to understand that there are blood clots in the vessels

The main sign is a sharp swelling in one leg
Edema can be below or above the knee, depending on the level of vein thrombosis. Usually only one limb suffers – the one in the vessels of which there is a blood clot.

Sudden pain in the leg
One of the main symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. It happens that a sharp or throbbing pain in the calf muscle is the only sign of thrombosis.

Skin discoloration
Blood clot interferes with normal circulation. Because of this, in some parts of the limb, the skin changes color: it turns red, turns pale or turns blue.

Change in skin temperature
The temperature of the skin can also change. With vein thrombosis, it most often becomes warmer, it may itch. It can be felt by touch.

When you need to urgently call an ambulance

• Suddenly it became difficult to breathe
• Chest pain aggravated by coughing or taking a deep breath
• Coughing up bloody sputum
• Clouding of consciousness, fainting

This is how PE manifests itself – pulmonary embolism.

It is clear that it is better not to bring things to critical situations. It is important to identify thrombosis at the earliest possible stage.

Currently, there is a certain public awareness of thrombosis, and this is good. But often patients, fearing thrombosis, exaggerate this condition. While patients who have had thrombosis for some reason do not apply on time.

Vadim Chernousov,
cardiovascular surgeon, phlebologist, ultrasound specialist

To summarize

Signs of vein thrombosis and its complications — PE:

• Severe swelling and pain in one of the limbs
• Change in temperature and skin color
• Suddenly it became difficult to breathe, chest pains appeared

What to do if you have signs of thrombosis:
Consult a doctor, preferably a phlebologist, as soon as possible. The doctor will conduct an examination, do an ultrasound scan and prescribe treatment, if necessary, send you to the hospital.

Make an appointment: 8 (978) 572-777-2
We work in Evpatoria, Feodosia, Sevastopol.

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All about pain and numbness of the calf muscle: causes, diagnosis and treatment

Pain and numbness of the calf muscle is a common symptom that can be a sign of a number of pathologies. A number of symptoms that may accompany pathology of the calf muscles:

Muscle cramps and muscle spasms in the calves can be very painful. They happen more and more with age. According to medical estimates, about 75% of patients over 50 have ever experienced calf cramps. Leg cramps occur both during the day and at night. They are caused by several factors, including pregnancy, dehydration, certain medications, and certain health conditions.

Main features:

• leg cramps
• feeling of stiffness in the ankle – ankle stiffness
• calf pain
• calf pain

Gastrocnemius is the biceps muscle on the back of the leg. Includes 3 muscles that help walk, run, jump, stand on toes and bend the foot. Compartment syndrome is a serious life-threatening condition that occurs when pressure builds up inside the calf muscle, which reduces the flow of blood and oxygen. The injury can be the result of an injury, such as a fracture, or intense physical activity.

Main features:

• pain in the back of the knee
• redness of the ankle
• leg cramps
• swelling of the lower leg
• pain in the lower leg
• pain in the calf

Chronic compartment syndrome is an exercise-induced disease of the muscles and nerves. This often causes pain and swelling. This disease can develop in any patient, but is most common in young adult runners and athletes. The cause of chronic compartment syndrome is not fully understood. When playing sports, the muscles increase in volume. The tissue that surrounds the affected muscle does not expand with it, causing pressure and pain in the affected limb. Other causes may be excessive stress on the muscles during exercise, especially inflexible fascia around the affected muscle compartment, or high pressure in the veins. Exercising too intensely or too frequently can also increase your risk of chronic tension syndrome.

Main symptoms:

• burning sensation in the legs
• pain in the calves
• decreased range of motion of the ankle
• inability to load the ankle and foot
• swelling of the lower leg 9001 2
• pain in lower leg
• burning sensation in ankle
• burning sensation in knee
• pain in the ankle
• lameness
• numbness and tingling of the lower leg
• muscle weakness

The gastrocnemius muscle consists of 2 main muscles – the gastrocnemius and the acetabulum. Because these 2 muscles converge over the heel and attach to the Achilles tendon, some physicians refer to the calf and acetabular muscles as one large, two-part muscle. In addition to these 2 large muscles, a small muscle called the plantar muscle runs between the calf and acetabular muscles along the entire length of the lower leg. Doctors call these 3 muscles the triceps. The most common calf injury is muscle strain. This happens when muscle fibers are overstressed or torn. It usually occurs as a result of strenuous exercise or overuse. This injury is common in activities such as running and sports that require jumping or quick stops and starts, such as football, basketball, and volleyball. Tennis leg is a type of muscle stretch that involves the calf muscle. Doctors call the condition “tennis leg” because it usually occurs when the leg is extended and the foot is flexed, but it can happen in any sport.

Main features:

• shin pain
• ankle pain
• calf pain
• foot pain
• inability to weight the ankle and foot

9 0011 swelling of the lower leg

• swelling of the ankle
• redness of the ankle
• bruising and bruising

The sural nerve is located under the surface of the skin at the back of the leg. It is part of the peripheral nervous system that helps the brain communicate with the rest of the body. The sural nerve contains tiny thread-like fibers (axons). A fatty substance, myelin, binds them together into nerve bundles. These bundles travel up the body to connect with the spinal cord. This network of neural tissue allows nerve signals to travel quickly to and from the brain. The sural nerve provides sensation to the skin in the following areas of the body: the back of the leg, below the knee, the outside of the foot, and the ankle. A pinched sural nerve occurs when nearby tissue thickens and presses on the nerve.

Main features:

• burning sensation in the legs
• numbness and tingling of the lower leg
• pain in the lower leg
• pain in the calves
• burning sensation in the ankle 9001 2
• burning sensation in the knee
• pain in the knee

Central pain syndrome is a neurological condition involving persistent, moderate or severe pain due to damage to the central nervous system. This syndrome is caused by stroke, multiple sclerosis, tumors, epilepsy, trauma to the brain or spinal cord, or Parkinson’s disease. The nature of the pain associated with the syndrome varies, in part due to the variety of causes. Central pain syndrome affects most of the body or is limited to certain areas, such as the arms or legs. The degree of pain is usually related to the cause of injury or damage to the central nervous system. Predisposing factors include arachnoiditis, spinal cord compression, post-traumatic syringomyelia, bedsores, as well as intestinal, urological and other diseases.

Main features:

• paresthesia of the neck – numbness and tingling
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• paresthesia of the hands – numbness and tingling
• burning sensation in the legs

90 011 pain in the arms

• cramps in the legs
• pain in lower back
• pain in the legs
• arthralgia – pain in several joints
• nausea
• vomiting
• cramps in the body
• general weakness in the body
• back pain
• headache

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which space in the spine narrows, compressing the spinal cord. This process is usually gradual and can occur anywhere in the spine. The most common cause of spinal stenosis is aging. As we age, the tissues of the spine may begin to thicken and the bones to increase in size, compressing the nerves. Certain health conditions can also contribute to spinal stenosis: achondroplasia, ankylosing spondylitis, congenital spinal stenosis, posterior longitudinal ligament ossification, osteoarthritis, Paget’s disease of bone, rheumatoid arthritis, scoliosis, spinal injuries, spinal tumors.

Main symptoms:

• pain in the back
• weakness in the legs
• weakness in the arms
• coccygodynia – pain in the coccyx
• pain in the buttocks
• in a pair esthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• paresthesia of the arm – numbness and tingling
• buttock paresthesia – numbness and tingling

Lumbar spondylosis is a bony growth that most often affects the edges of the vertebrae. It can be non-deforming and deforming. Deforming spondylosis varies in severity from minimal to the most pronounced grade 4. This degenerative condition can deform the structure of the vertebrae, spinous and transverse processes. Sometimes it can lead to stenosis and negatively affect the nerve endings. If spondylosis is pronounced and already presses on the roots of the spinal cord. Neurologists associate the development of this degenerative change in the spine with a violation of metabolic processes in the intervertebral discs. During the gradual destruction of the fibrous ring and the anterior longitudinal ligament, the intervertebral disc begins to lose its shock-absorbing ability due to loss of elasticity. As a response, the body tries to compensate for the increase in pressure on the vertebral structures due to the fact that bone growths – spondelophytes – begin to appear along the edges of the vertebral bodies. This is the scheme of formation of spondylosis.

Main features:

• burning sensation in the legs
• numbness in the toes
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• crunching in the back
• muscle weakness of the back 90 012
• decreased range of motion of the back
• low back pain
• coccygodynia – pain in the coccyx
• pain in the legs

Lumbar stenosis is a condition in which the space in the spine narrows, compressing the spinal cord. The most common cause of spinal stenosis is aging. As we age, the tissues of the spine may begin to thicken and the vertebrae to grow in size, compressing the nerves. Certain diseases can also contribute to lumbar stenosis: achondroplasia, ankylosing spondylitis, congenital spinal stenosis, ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament, osteoarthritis, Paget’s disease of bone, rheumatoid arthritis, scoliosis, spinal injuries, spinal tumors.

Main features:

• knee pain
• paresthesia of the knee – numbness and tingling
• paresthesia of the thigh – numbness and tingling
• numbness and tingling of the lower leg
• lower back pain
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• weakness in legs
• pain above the coccyx
• pelvic pain
• calf pain
• lower leg pain
• urinary incontinence and loss of bladder control

Radiculitis – lesions of the roots of the spinal cord, causing motor, vegetative and pain disorders. Sciatica occurs when a nerve is compressed by surrounding tissues. Sometimes it is caused by a herniated disc. The condition begins with a weakening or tearing of the outer edge of the disc. The nucleus, or inner part, then pushes outward and puts pressure on a nearby spinal nerve. Sciatica can be the result of aging or injury. Many changes in the spine occur with age. Radiculitis usually affects patients aged 30 to 50 years. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and obesity can increase your risk of developing sciatica. Other risk factors are poor posture, spinal abnormalities such as scoliosis, and repetitive movements. Pregnant women are at higher risk. The condition can also be hereditary, so patients with a family history are at increased risk.

Main features:

• leg paresthesia – numbness and tingling
• back pain when bending over
• lower back pain
• knee pain
• leg cramps

9 0011 pain in calves

• pain in lower leg
• decreased reflexes
• loss of reflexes in the legs
• weakness in the legs
• pain in the thigh
• pain in the buttocks
• paresthesia of the buttocks – numbness and tingling
• burning sensation in the buttocks
• paresthesia of the thigh – numbness and tingling
• pain in the pelvis

Tumors of peripheral nerves – tumors affecting the trunk or sheaths of the nerves of the peripheral nervous system. The cause of benign peripheral nerve tumors is usually unknown. Some are inherited. The most common type is schwannoma. It usually starts in a single bundle within the underlying nerve, crowding out the rest of the nerve. A number of researchers point to the role of a biological factor – the oncogenic effect on the body of individual viruses. In addition, the lowered background of the antitumor defense of the body matters. The provoking trigger may be nerve damage due to trauma.

Main features:

• lump or lump
• decreased range of motion of the back
• lower back pain
• knee pain
• knee paresthesia – numbness and tingling

90 011 Urinary incontinence and loss of bladder control

• Loss of bladder control intestines
• pain when sitting
• paresthesia of the thigh – numbness and tingling
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• numbness and tingling of the lower leg
• calf pain
• calf pain

Chronic vascular disease of the legs is a class of diseases of the blood vessels – arteries and veins of the body’s circulatory system. Some patients are born with vascular diseases that they have inherited from their parents. In cases such as bleeding disorders, the disease begins at a younger age. However, many vascular diseases develop over time due to plaque buildup in the arteries, such as peripheral arterial disease or carotid artery disease. Known causes of vascular disease include: high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, genetics, drugs, trauma, infection, blood clots.

Main features:

• bulging of the veins
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• burning sensation in the legs
• cold legs
• cramps in the legs

9 0011 weakness in the legs

• swelling of the legs
• pain in the legs
• pain in the ankle
• pain in the knee

Pyramidal insufficiency syndrome is a violation of the tone of the muscles of the extremities, especially the lower ones. This pathology is also called “toe walking” or “ballerina symptom”. Some examples of injuries that result in damage if left untreated include: sesamoiditis, which is a chronic inflammation of the balls of the foot under the big toe; calluses that turn into ulcers; toenails that thicken and grow under hard skin heel spurs. In young children, the appearance of pyramidal insufficiency is often caused by physiological factors. The immaturity of the nervous system, a large number of unusual external stimuli, active processes of establishing neural connections – all these reasons can provoke neurological symptoms.

Main features:

• tiptoe walking
• feeling of stiffness in the legs – stiffness of the lower limb
• cramps in the legs
• weakness in the legs
• pain in the heel 90 012
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• swelling of the legs
• pain in the legs

Restless legs syndrome is a discomfort in the legs that occurs mainly at night, provokes the awakening of the patient and often leads to chronic insomnia. Iron deficiency in the bone marrow is the main cause of restless leg syndrome. The following conditions can negatively affect iron levels: kidney failure; peripheral neuropathy; diabetes; Parkinson’s disease; rheumatoid arthritis. Restless legs syndrome can also be caused by a folic acid or magnesium deficiency. Both nutrients are critical for proper muscle contraction and nerve impulse conduction. Studies have shown that obese patients have an increased risk of restless leg syndrome.

Main features:

• pain in the lower leg
• pain in the legs
• feeling of stiffness in the legs – stiffness of the lower limb
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• feeling of leg cramps
• leg cramps
• knee paresthesia – numbness and tingling
• numbness and tingling of the lower leg
• burning sensation in the knee
• pain in the calves
• pain in the knee

Frostbite is a traumatic condition caused by freezing of the skin and soft tissues. Exposed skin in cold, windy weather is most vulnerable to frostbite. A mild form of frostbite leads to numbness in the affected area. When heat is applied, pain and tingling may occur, but the condition does not cause permanent damage to the skin. Superficial frostbite causes slight changes in skin color. The patient may feel a burning sensation and detect swelling. A fluid-filled blister may appear 12 to 36 hours after skin warming. Deep frostbite affects all layers of the skin, as well as underlying tissues. The skin becomes white or bluish, the sensation of cold, pain or discomfort in this area is gradually lost. Joints or muscles may stop working. Large blisters form 24-48 hours after heat is applied. The tissue becomes black and hard as it dies.

Main features:

• cold hands
• cold feet
• pain in the legs
• pain in the hands
• pain in the foot
• fever

9001 1 skin discoloration

• myalgia – muscle pain
• muscle cramps
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• paresthesia of the arm – numbness and tingling
• numbness in the foot
• tingling in the hands
• cyanosis of the skin
• burning sensation in the legs

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin. Its main role is the development of red blood cells and is involved in the normal division of red blood cells. In addition, it is involved in the formation of cells of the immune system, skin; contributes to the normal functioning of the digestive tract; participates in the formation of nerve fibers; has a positive effect on metabolism, the movement of lipids and carbohydrates; prevents the occurrence of pernicious anemia; supports the health of the nervous system.

Main features:

• burning sensation in the knee
• paresthesia of the hands – numbness and tingling
• numbness in the toes
• paresthesia of the neck – numbness and tingling
• numbness in the foot
• paresthesia of the hand – numbness and tingling
• numbness in the face
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• dyspnea – shortness of breath
• chronic fatigue
• discoloration of the skin
• increased irritability
• hypersensitivity to light
• depression
• red eyes
• diarrhea and diarrhea
• loss of appetite

Deficiency of vitamin B 1 is quite common because it is highly consumed by the body. This is the most important vitamin that is involved in energy metabolism. It normalizes the activity of the central nervous, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. With a deficiency of thiamine, the conversion of carbohydrates into lipids slows down, the synthesis of steroids – sex hormones decreases, and energy metabolism suffers. Inhibition of lipid synthesis is the cause of prostaglandin deficiency. With a deficiency of vitamin B 1, encephalopathy can also develop.

Main features:

• insomnia or sleep disturbances
• pain in the lower leg
• headache
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• numbness in the toes
• numbness in the foot
• irritability
• loss of appetite
• weight loss
• chronic fatigue
• burning sensation in the legs

A complication of diabetes, diabetic neuropathy occurs as a result of uncontrolled high blood sugar levels. It usually starts in the arms or legs, but can spread to other parts of the body, including the thighs. Symptoms of the condition include loss of sensation when touched, difficulty coordinating when walking, numbness or pain in the upper and lower extremities, muscle weakness, diarrhea or constipation, and excessive sweating.

Main features:

• pain in the legs
• pain in the arms
• muscle weakness
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• paresthesia of the arm – numbness and tingling 9001 2
• paresthesia of the knee – numbness and tingling
• numbness and tingling of the lower leg
• diarrhea and diarrhea
• constipation
• stumbling
• hyperhidrosis – excessive sweating

Buerger’s disease, also known as thromboangiitis obliterans, is a rare disease of the vessels of the arms and legs. The disease provokes inflammation of the veins and arteries, as a result of which they swell and clog with blood clots. Ultimately, skin tissue is destroyed, leading to infection or gangrene. At first, the disease manifests itself only in small areas of the arms and legs, as it progresses, affecting large areas. Almost all patients with Buerger’s disease suffer from tobacco dependence. Quitting smoking or chewing tobacco is the only way to stop the progression of the disease. The exact cause of Buerger’s disease is unknown, despite a direct relationship with tobacco addiction. The chemicals in tobacco are believed to irritate the lining of blood vessels, causing them to swell.

Main features:

• pain in the foot
• cold hands
• cold feet
• ulcers on the feet
• bulging of the veins
• pain in the hands 900 12
• pain in the legs
• discoloration of the skin
• paresthesia of the legs – numbness and tingling
• paresthesia of the arm – numbness and tingling
• tingling in the arms

Thrombosis or embolism of the gastrocnemius artery is a condition in which a blood clot (thrombus) or embolus (blood clot, usually originating elsewhere in the body) blocks blood flow to the calf muscle, which can cause pain and numbness.

Gastrocnemius lateral transverse fascia syndrome is a rare condition characterized by inflammation of the fascia (tissue surrounding the muscle) in the calf region. It can cause soreness, swelling, and numbness in the calf muscle.

Gastrocnemius muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that lead to gradual weakening and degeneration of the calf muscle, accompanied by pain and numbness. Duchenne Dystrophy is the most common and severe form of gastrocnemius muscular dystrophy and usually presents in childhood. In this form, the protein dystrophin is absent, leading to a progressive deterioration in muscle function. Becker’s dystrophy is a milder and slowly progressive form that is also associated with a lack of the protein dystrophin, but to a lesser extent than in Duchenne dystrophy. It usually presents later in life and has a more varied clinical course. Myotonic dystrophy is an inherited disorder that affects the muscles and can affect the calf muscle. It is characterized by myotonia (difficulty relaxing muscles) and progressive muscle weakness.