Strain or injury incurred during a workout is not the only possible cause of muscle pain in your extremities. Medical issues can bring about muscle pain without strenuous exercise. These conditions range from minor discomfort to possibly life threatening situations.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease is characterized by poor circulation to your limbs. This condition is most likely caused by atherosclerosis and blood vessel inflammation. Peripheral artery disease manifests itself through pain and cramping in your limbs. These cramps usually occur during some sort of physical activity such as walking or climbing stairs. Physical tests, blood tests and ultrasounds are used to diagnose this conditions, which is treated with blood thinners, lifestyle changes, cholesterol reducing medication and, if necessary, surgery. If left untreated, the condition may lead to life threatening stokes or heart attacks.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Damage to the nerves in your peripheral nervous system may lead to pain in the muscles of your arms and legs. This condition may be caused by infections, trauma, vitamin deficiencies, alcoholism, toxic substances and tumors. A person experiencing peripheral neuropathy may suffer pain, a burning sensation, muscle weakness and a loss of coordination. This condition is diagnosed with liver tests, blood tests, thyroid function tests, nerve biopsies and electromyography. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, anti-seizure medication, pain relief medication and by treating possible underlying causes. If left untreated this condition may lead to a loss of sensation in your limbs and also leave you at risk for serious infections.
Ligament or Tendon Damage
Pain in your arms and legs may be due to a ligament injury. In some cases even the slightest awkward movement can cause damage to the ligaments that connect your muscles to your bones. This damage may lead to the swelling of your limbs, extreme pain and the loss of movement. These conditions are diagnosed with a thorough physical examination, an MRI and computerized tomography. Depending on the severity of the injury, the treatment varies from immobilization to pain killers to surgery. If left untreated this condition may lead to further damage and a loss of motility in the damaged area.
In the Event of Pain
Pain in the muscles of your limbs for longer than two days without an apparent cause is cause for concern and should be brought to the attention of your physician. In the case of an extreme onset of pain, seek immediate medical attention to prevent life threatening complications.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Peripheral Neuropathy
- MayoClinic.Com: Peripheral Artery Disease
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine (16th edition)"; Lawrence Madoff, et al; 2005
- "Physiology 5th Edition;" Mathew N. Levy, et al.; 2004
- "Preventive and Social Medicine"; K. Park, J. E. Park; 1995
