Painful Legs, a common experience that can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, is often a result of various risk factors such as trauma, injury, cramps, strain, neuropathy, age, overuse of the leg muscles, and fatigue. While it’s typically harmless, it can also be a signal of underlying medical conditions. Some of the most common causes of tired and painful legs include:
Muscle Fatigue
Overworking and over-exertion can cause muscle fatigue, resulting in tired and painful legs. Standing or sitting in the same position for a prolonged period is the leading cause of muscle fatigue.
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are a condition in which the veins become large and twisted within the lower limbs, resulting in blood pooling in the legs. This condition can be severe and causes painful legs.
Peripheral Arterial Disease
PAD, or peripheral artery disease, is a vascular condition that affects the lower limbs. It is characterized by the blockage of arteries, typically in the legs. Tired and painful legs are the most common symptoms of PAD.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency is the inability of the veins to return blood to the heart. This results in blood pooling and can further cause fatigue, pain, and heaviness in the legs.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
In deep thrombosis, a blood clot develops within the veins, usually in the legs, causing severe pain and fatigue. If left untreated, it leads to pulmonary embolism.
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve runs towards the legs from the lower back. When this nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause severe leg pain and discomfort within the lower back and buttocks muscles.
Restless Leg Syndrome
The irresistible urge to move your legs is termed restless leg syndrome. This condition worsens at night and can cause painful and tired legs and other symptoms.
Electrolyte imbalance and dehydration
Reduced potassium, magnesium, and calcium levels can cause severe cramping in the legs and exacerbate stiffening and tiredness.
Symptoms to look out for
Tired and painful legs can be a sign of various vascular disorders. Look out for other accompanying symptoms for early detection, such as:
- Persistent pain
- Swelling
- Redness and warmth
- Skin discoloration
- Constant fatigue
- Tingling and numbness
- Frequent cramping
- Heaviness
- Restless legs
Management
Painful and tired legs are standard in adults, but they can greatly impact an individual’s quality of life. The following are some ways to manage fatigue.
- Rest and light elevation exercises
- Using compression stockings
- Being hydrated
- Taking proper nutrition
- Medications
- Physical or heat therapies
Understanding the nature of leg pain is essential to getting checked for any rising conditions. Consult a healthcare specialist if you have had painful and tired legs for an extended period for proper diagnosis and management.
