Injuries, overuse and blood vessel disorders are common causes of lower leg pain. A careful medical history noting the nature of the pain, its onset, and factors that augment or alleviate the pain can help guide physicians in an appropriate diagnostic workup and treatment plan.
Shin Splints
Shin splints are a common cause of pain in the front aspect of the lower legs. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that shin splints represent inflammation of the outer layer of the large lower leg bone, the tibia, and the nearby muscles and tendons. Shin splints most commonly occur in people who participate in strenuous physical activity such as distance running and dance. Rest and anti-inflammatory medications are the mainstays of treatment for shin splints.
Calf Muscle Injury
Calf muscle injury can cause pain in the back aspect of the lower leg. The large muscle in this area is the gastrocnemius, more commonly known as the gastroc. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center notes that small to large tears can occur in the gastroc due to overuse, trauma, overstretching or a sudden pulling action on the lower leg. Gastroc tears typically cause varying degrees of tenderness and pain, which is elicited by shifting weight to the balls of the feet or standing on tiptoes. Rest, anti-inflammatory medicines and compression with an elastic bandage are typical treatments for mild to moderate gastroc tears.
Deep Venous Thrombosis
Deep venous thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot--a thrombus--in a deep vein. The lower legs are a common site for deep venous thrombosis. Tenderness, pain and swelling of the lower leg are common symptoms of deep venous thrombosis, advises the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The area may also be red and warm to the touch. The concern with deep venous thrombosis is that part of the thrombus may splinter off and travel to the lungs. This condition, known as pulmonary embolism, can be life threatening. The American Academy of Family Physicians states that blood thinners--anticoagulants--such as heparin and warfarin are the primary form of treatment for deep venous thrombosis.
Peripheral Artery Disease
The Mayo Clinic explains that claudication is muscle pain caused by an inadequate blood supply. Claudication is usually caused by peripheral artery disease. With this condition, plaque buildup in the arteries causes narrowing of the open area inside the blood vessels, which limits blood flow. The lower legs are commonly affected by peripheral artery disease and claudication, notes the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Aching pain is typically provoked by physical activity. With severe peripheral artery disease, leg pain may occur even at rest.
