What should I do if my leg hurts when walking due to a pulled muscle?
Mar 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
In general, pain while walking due to strained leg muscles should be treated according to the underlying cause. Possible causes include muscle strain, ligament sprain, fasciitis, lower extremity varicose veins, lumbar disc herniation, and others. If the pain is severe or persists for a long time, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo active treatment under a doctor's guidance to promote symptom improvement.
In general, pain while walking due to leg muscle strain should be treated according to the underlying cause. Possible causes include muscle strain, ligament sprain, fasciitis, lower extremity varicose veins, lumbar disc herniation, and others. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Muscle Strain
Muscle strain may result from inadequate warm-up before exercise or improper exertion during physical activity. It is recommended to rest more and apply ice packs to the injured muscle, which helps reduce swelling and relieve pain. In cases of severe pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, naproxen sustained-release tablets, or celecoxib capsules may be taken under medical guidance to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
2. Ligament Sprain
Ligament sprains occur when the ligaments are stretched beyond their normal range, often leading to local swelling and pain, with increased discomfort during movement. Applying cold compresses within the first 24 hours and switching to warm compresses after 24 hours can help relieve pain. Additionally, it's important to get adequate rest and avoid strenuous physical activity.
3. Fasciitis
Fasciitis may develop due to exposure of the legs to cold and wind, causing local circulatory disturbances, or from prolonged muscle tension leading to aseptic inflammation. Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, stretching exercises may help relax muscles, reduce fascial compression, and alleviate pain. For intense pain, medications such as celecoxib capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may be used under medical supervision for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
4. Lower Extremity Varicose Veins
This condition results from twisting and dilation of the great saphenous vein in the lower limbs. When combined with leg muscle strain, pain during walking is usually quite noticeable. Other accompanying symptoms may include skin discoloration and numbness. According to physician recommendations, anticoagulant medications such as warfarin sodium tablets, clopidogrel sulfate tablets, or apixaban tablets may be used to promote blood circulation and relieve discomfort.
5. Lumbar Disc Herniation
In lumbar disc herniation, protruding tissue may compress spinal nerves or the cauda equina, potentially causing leg pain. Bed rest is recommended. With physician-administered treatments such as massage and traction, the intervertebral space can be widened, reducing pressure within the disc and allowing the herniated portion to retract, thereby decreasing irritation and compression on nerve roots and alleviating symptoms.
If pain is severe or persists for an extended period, prompt medical consultation is advised for active treatment under professional guidance to promote symptom improvement.
