Causes of Severe Calf Pain That Is Unbearable at Night
I am 45 years old this year. Recently, over the past few months, I often experience sudden, severe pain in my calves at night. This kind of pain is truly unbearable; it feels as if the calf muscles are tightening and clumping together. I would like to ask, why do my calves suddenly hurt so much at night?
Doctor's answer (1)
Common causes that may lead to severe calf pain at night:
1. Muscle strain or exercise injury: If you engage in excessive physical activity, prolonged standing, or walking during the day, it may result in muscle strain or injury in the calf. During nighttime rest, the pain may become more noticeable due to body relaxation.
2. Muscle cramps: This is one of the most common causes, usually occurring at night or during sleep. Muscle cramps may be triggered by prolonged standing, walking, lack of physical activity, or muscle fatigue. Electrolyte imbalance can also lead to muscle cramps.
3. Nerve compression: Conditions such as lumbar disc herniation or lumbar spinal stenosis may compress nerves, causing calf pain. During nighttime sleep, poor posture might worsen nerve compression, resulting in severe pain.
4. Poor circulation: Conditions such as varicose veins, blood clots, or arterial diseases may cause calf pain. These symptoms may worsen at night because when lying down, the ability of blood to return to the heart may be affected.
5. Nerve damage: Diseases such as diabetes may cause nerve damage, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling sensations, especially in the legs. This type of pain may be more pronounced at night.
