Many people experience leg pain at one point or another. Some causes of leg pain involve problems with the muscles, while others involve a deeper problem with proper blood flow. Most causes of leg pain are not serious, but if swelling occurs in conjunction with leg pain, it's important to consult a doctor.
Charley Horse
A charley horse is the name people commonly use for a muscle spasm, especially when it occurs in the leg. Normal muscle movements consist of a series of contractions and relaxations to allow the muscle to move without causing any pain. A charley horse occurs when the muscle contracts but does not relax. This causes tightness in the muscle as well as an intense pain. MedlinePlus notes that working out while dehydrated or a lack of potassium or calcium in the body are the most common reasons for charley horses. Damage to the nerves that supply the legs with sensation may cause this type of pain as well. When a charley horse occurs, stopping activity and massaging the muscle can help relieve tightness and pain. Application of heat followed by ice can help relax the muscle and relieve some pain as well. If spasms are recurrent, a doctor may prescribe antispasm medications, according to MedlinePlus.
Varicose Veins
Veins are the blood vessels responsible for bringing blood back to the heart after tissues have been saturated with oxygen. In order to keep blood flowing in one direction, small valves inside the veins close when blood passes through them. This prevents backflow. In those with varicose veins, the valves in the veins become weak or damaged, allowing blood to flow backwards and form blood pools. This causes the swelling associated with varicose veins. In addition to visible swelling of the veins, other symptoms include swelling of the ankles and feet, pain and cramping in the legs, itchiness and changes in skin color around the affected area. Varicose veins most commonly form in the legs, but can affect other areas of the body as well, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition in which blood clots form in a deep vein of the body. This condition usually affects the thigh or lower leg. Blood clots can form as a result of plaque buildup in the blood vessels or other conditions that affect proper blood flow. Some cases of deep vein thrombosis do not produce any symptoms. Others with the condition experience swelling in the leg, ankle and foot; pain that begins in the leg and may travel to the ankle and foot; and redness and increased temperature in the affected area. Treatment for deep vein thrombosis is to prevent the blood clot from traveling to the lungs and to prevent it from getting bigger, according to MayoClinic.com. Most cases are treated with blood thinners. Clot busting medications are only used in severe cases because they can cause serious bleeding.
