In case you experience sudden pains in the leg, that are frequent, persistent and unbearable, a visit to the doctor for a proper evaluation may be required without any further delay. This is because there can be several factors that cause leg aches. While some of these reasons could be harmless, there is a strong possibility that the underlying cause of the pain could be a serious medical condition.
One of the most common reasons for leg aches after prolonged sitting or standing could be the buildup of fluid in the veins of the legs. This condition is known as venous congestion, which occurs when that valves that are present in the veins of your legs do not perform the function of moving the blood from the legs to the heart effectively. It causes to blood to pool in the legs and feet, which leads to severe pain and at times, swelling too.
People who suffer from venous congestion often describe their pain as a severe cramp or a burning sensation felt mainly in the calf area. They often complain that the pain worsens when they spend a long period of time either sitting or standing. Apart from spending extended hours on your feet, severe obesity could also be a major contributing factor towards this ailment.
The most effective way of diagnosing this condition, is by consulting a doctor, who may need to check your medical history and conduct a physical examination. In case it is confirmed that the condition that is the cause of the pain in your leg is venous congestion, the doctor may begin treatment, which normally includes:
- Increasing the levels of your physical activity throughout the day
- Keeping your legs elevated for a while, especially when they ache. It is best to keep your legs above the heart level for about fifteen to twenty minutes.
- Wearing compression hosiery
- Following a proper and nutritious diet that includes all the healthy and important foods and at the same time, restricts the intake of foods that can have a negative impact on the condition.
- Drinking a lot of water, that is, at least 12 glasses each day.
- Taking short and brief breaks from work to get up and move around a little, after frequent intervals
The use of certain medication may also be required in order to alleviate the pain caused by this condition. Therefore, it is best to start the treatment as early as possible.
answered by G M