Exercising for extended periods, especially when the temperature soars, can cause leg pain. Wear and tear and injuries in the bones, muscles, joints, tendons or ligaments can also result in leg cramps. A calf muscle becomes strained when a partial tear occurs in muscles' tiny fibers, explains the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Causes
Running, basketball, football, soccer and hurdles are examples of sports activities that demand bursts of speed which can strain calf muscles, explains UPMC. Overusing the calf muscles during exercise can also cause pain, stiffness and weakness in the back of the lower leg. Stretching the calf muscles beyond its tension threshold can stress the area and lead to discomfort.
Recommendations
Engaging in activities such as weightlifting, jumping or running exacerbate calf pain and should be avoided until discomfort and tenderness have disappeared. Take smaller steps when walking if your normal stride causes pain. Apply an ice pack to the calf area for 15 to 20 minutes several times per day for a few days after injury. Heat may be applied three to five days after the injury before resuming exercise or playing sports, advises UPMC.
Gentle stretching exercises may be performed once calf pain subsides. Hold each stretch for 10 seconds and repeat six times. Repeat several times throughout the day. Don't stretch to the point of pain.
Precautions
Varicose veins and blood clots can also cause leg pain, cautions MayoClinic.com. Peripheral artery disease or PAD is a narrowing of blood vessels that can diminish blood flow to your legs and cause pain that worsens during exercise. Symptoms of PAD include pain, fatigue or a burning sensation in the calves, thighs or feet. Talk to your health care provider if you are suffering from chronic leg pain.
Prevention/Outlook
It can take two to three weeks to fully recover from calf pain depending on the severity of the muscle tear. Take a few minutes to warm up with light stretches or calisthenics before exercising to help make your calf muscles and joints more flexible, advises the American Academy of Family Physicians.
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