Aches and pains in the calf can signify something as simple as a minor muscle strain, or it can represent something far more serious. Most calf pain is usually mild and short-lived. A recent injury or a bout of strenuous exercise can offer a clear cut explanation for the pain. Pain without an obvious cause, however, is a good reason to see a health care provider.
Baker's Cyst
A Baker's cyst, also called a popliteal cyst, is a small fluid-filled sac located behind the knee. Overuse, injury or arthritic conditions can cause joint fluid to build up in the joint capsule, creating enough pressure to produce a cyst. Sometimes Baker's cysts are large and can rupture, spreading joint fluid into the calf muscle. The cyst may cause no symptoms, but often results in swelling behind the knee, stiffness and pain. Some may notice difficulty in fully flexing or extending the lower leg. A ruptured Baker's cyst causes sharp pain in the calf, and swelling of the knee. Generally, a baker's cyst requires no treatment, and will heal on its own. If necessary, a doctor will remove fluid off the knee with a fine needle, and only in rare cases is surgery needed. A doctor should be consulted for swelling behind the knee, as it could indicate a more serious condition such as a blood clot.
Deep Venous Thrombosis
Sometimes the lower leg can develop a blood clot in the deep veins. The clot is referred to as a thrombus. Deep venous thrombosis, or DVT, arises due to injury of the vein, decreased flow of blood or an increased tendency of the blood to clot. There may be no symptoms of DVT; in some cases, however, aching pain, tenderness, redness and swelling of the calf may present. Most DVTs occur in people older than 60, according to MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health. People with a DVT are at significant risk of having a blood clot travel from the leg to the lungs, which is a life-threatening event. A doctor should be consulted if symptoms of a DVT are experienced.
Intermittent Claudication
Intermittent claudication is a condition of reduced blood and oxygen flow to the legs due to blocked arteries. This condition is a sign of peripheral arterial disease, which is a hardening of the arteries in the extremities. Intermittent claudication causes pain, cramping and a tired feeling in the legs during walking. Rest alleviates the pain and discomfort. Merck Manuals Medical Library reports that peripheral arterial disease affects about 12 percent of Americans, men more often that women.
