Q. I’ve noticed that my legs have been hurting when I walk. Is this likely just due to the physical activity, or could it be something else?
A. Leg pain one experiences with walking could be due to multiple causes. While fatigue or generalized weakness are common reasons this may occur, there are a number of other potential sources.
Peripheral artery disease often manifests itself as pain one experiences after walking. The pain is caused by blockages in the arteries limiting blood flow and the delivery of oxygen to the tissues. This then leads to cramping with exertion. The cramping most commonly presents in the calf muscles of the legs but can also be found in the buttocks or thighs.
Other common causes of pain in the legs while walking or at rest include venous insufficiency, lumbar spinal disease or electrolyte imbalances.
It may be something you wish to investigate further with your provider, as there are fairly simple tests used to determine the culprit. Regardless, it is never wrong to keep walking and keep exercising!
Dr. Will Harris is a vascular specialist with Vascular Institute of Chattanooga and a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.