Aching leg muscles is a common condition that is usually not serious and resolves quickly on its own. The legs have a multitude of different muscles, some of which are large, powerful and very active, making them susceptible to injury and achiness. In some rare situations, achiness or cramping of the legs can be a sign of a serious underlying condition. If leg achiness or cramping is a recurring or progressively worsening condition, it is appropriate to seek medical care.
Exercise
It is a common occurrence for an individual to overexercise, especially when beginning a new exercise routine. Many in this situation think they can do more than their bodies are prepared for when they have not exercised in a long time. Excessive exercise of the leg muscles can cause soreness and muscle cramps. It is important to thoroughly stretch and warm up muscles before heavy use to keep muscles supple, increase blood supply to the muscles, improve flexibility and improve coordination, according to WomensHeart.org. Overexercising is a minor condition and pain usually recedes within a day or so and is different from a true muscle strain.
Muscle Strain
A muscle strain occurs when a muscle is overstretched in a quick, jerky fashion and causes some degree of muscle fiber tearing. These can range from mild to severe, when the muscle is actually torn completely and requires surgical repair. It is common to experience a muscle strain in the legs when participating in sports and often happens because muscles are not properly warmed up. Muscle strains are treated with ice, compression, rest and elevating the legs, according to the Penn State College of Medicine website. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may also be useful in reducing pain and inflammation associated with a leg muscle strain.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic and widespread condition that affects the entire body. It is characterized by multiple tender points and aching muscles. According to MayoClinic.com, about 2 percent of the population experiences fibromyalgia and the cause is unknown. Fibromyalgia can cause leg muscle achiness and particularly affects the upper hips and inner knees. Unfortunately, very little is known about fibromyalgia and there is also no cure.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition that causes blood clots to form in the large, deep veins of the leg. It often occurs after prolonged bed rest, surgery or excessive sitting, such as may occur on a long airplane flight. The blood clot that forms can block blood flow from reaching the muscles of the legs and cause severe pain and achiness. This can be a serious condition, as it is possible for a portion of the blood clot to break loose and travel through the vessels to the heart or lungs, where it can lodge and block blood flow to those important organs. Blood thinning medications, such as heparin and warfarin, are usually given to help prevent further blood clot formation, according to MedlinePlus.
