Why do legs hurt?

Leg pain can occur due to fatigue, poor circulation, joint diseases, vein problems, or a lack of micronutrients. Sometimes it appears after a long day on your feet, but if discomfort occurs regularly, it’s important to identify the causes and consult a doctor.

Main causes of leg pain

Fatigue and overstrain
A common cause of pain is prolonged strain on muscles and joints. Long standing, walking, or wearing uncomfortable shoes can lead to:

• Pain in the feet and calves;
• Cramps, especially at night;
• A feeling of heaviness in the legs.

Varicose veins
If pain is accompanied by swelling, heaviness, and a vascular network, varicose veins may be developing. Risk factors include:

• Prolonged sitting or standing;
• Pregnancy;
• Genetic predisposition.

Joint problems
Arthritis and osteoarthritis are common diseases that affect the joints of the legs. Symptoms may include:

• Stiffness and pain when moving;
• A “cracking” feeling in the joints;
• Inflammation and swelling.

Poor circulation
Weak blood flow can cause numbness, tingling, and cramps. Causes include:

• Iron and magnesium deficiency;
• Atherosclerosis of the vessels;
• Smoking and improper diet.

Nervous system disorders
Some pain is related to problems with the nervous system, such as pinched sciatic nerves. This causes:

• Sharp pain radiating to the buttocks and thigh;
• A burning sensation and numbness;
• Increased pain with prolonged sitting.

Interesting facts about legs

• Every day, the legs bear a load of hundreds of tons – walking applies a force to them several times greater than body weight.
• The legs have more bones than any other part of the body – 26 in each foot!
• Leg cramps can be caused by dehydration – if cramps occur frequently, it’s advisable to drink more water.
• The pressure on the soles during running can exceed body weight by 3-5 times.

When to see a doctor?

If leg pain occurs regularly, is accompanied by swelling, cramps, tingling, or inflammation, it’s important not to delay seeing a doctor. A specialist will help identify the cause and prescribe the proper treatment to prevent complications.

Leg pain is a common problem, linked both to physical strain and diseases. If discomfort occurs frequently, it’s important to identify the cause and, if necessary, consult a doctor. Healthy legs are the key to an active and comfortable life!