Several conditions can cause major lower leg pain. According to MedlinePlus, a website produced by the National Institute of Health, lower leg muscles, which are divided into several compartments, are a common cause of lower leg pain. In some cases, the lower leg muscles may be associated with major lower leg pain. However, other lower leg structures, including bones, nerves and blood vessels, can also cause major lower leg pain. The severity of lower leg pain largely depends on the cause of the pain and the tissues involved.
Anterior Compartment Syndrome
Anterior compartment syndrome can cause major lower leg pain. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, compartments are groups of muscles, nerves and blood vessels in a person's arms or legs. Compartments are bound or covered by a membranous tissue called fascia. Fascia is responsible for keeping tissues in place, which means it does not stretch easily. Compartment syndrome occurs when pressure within the muscles builds and impairs blood flow to nearby nerve and muscle cells. Without oxygen and nutrients, these cells can die. The AAOS states that one of the most common locations for compartment syndrome is the anterior portion or front of the shin. Anterior compartment syndrome can be caused by a fracture, a badly bruised muscle or crush injuries. Common signs and symptoms associated with anterior compartment syndrome include intense pain in the lower leg, tingling or burning sensations in the overlying skin and the sensation of tightness or fullness in the involved muscles.
Fractured Tibia
A fractured tibia or shinbone can cause major lower leg pain. The AAOS states that a fractured or broken tibia is the most common long bone injury. A long bone is a bone that is longer than it is wide. Possible types of tibia fractures range from hairline stress fractures--commonly seen in runners--to open fractures or fractures where a portion of the tibia breaks through the skin's surface. Open fractures are usually caused by motor vehicle accidents. Common signs and symptoms associated with a fractured tibia depend on the fracture type, but may include extreme lower leg pain, an inability to walk or bear weight on the injured leg, swelling, bruising and decreased active range of motion of the injured segment. According to the AAOS, fractures of the tibia bone can take a long time to heal. Possible complications associated with a tibia fracture may include knee or ankle pain, leg length inequality, infection and vascular injuries.
DOMS
Delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS can cause major lower leg pain. In severe cases, DOMS can impair a person's ability to walk and perform his activities of daily living. According to University of New Mexico Exercise Science Prof. Len Kravitz, DOMS is a condition that is associated with increased physical work or exertion. DOMS may be experienced by everybody, regardless of fitness level, following a period of increased physical exertion or the introduction of new activities into an exercise routine. DOMS is a normal physiological response to increased training volume or workload. Possible signs and symptoms associated with DOMS include severe pain in the lower leg and other areas throughout the body, muscle stiffness and decreased joint active range of motion. Most cases of DOMS are caused by eccentric exercise, which is exercise in which lengthened muscles are forced to contract. DOMS-related pain usually self-resolves within 72 hours.
