What medical conditions can cause aching legs?
Disease description:
My legs have been sore and aching recently, and even walking feels strenuous. I'm wondering if this is due to overexertion from recent physical activities, or if there could be other causes. What medical conditions can cause leg pain in both legs?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Leg pain and soreness can be caused by various diseases or conditions. The following are some common causes:
1. Muscle strain: Prolonged standing, walking, exercising, or overexertion can lead to leg muscle strain, causing soreness. This type of soreness is usually associated with lactic acid buildup, and can be relieved by rest and appropriate stretching.
2. Osteoporosis: More common in elderly patients, osteoporosis may cause bone pain in both lower limbs, accompanied by fatigue.
3. Lumbar spine issues: Conditions such as lumbar disc herniation and lumbar spinal stenosis may compress nerves, causing leg pain and soreness. This pain may worsen during walking.
4. Vascular diseases: Vascular conditions such as lower limb arterial occlusive disease and deep vein thrombosis can lead to impaired blood circulation in the lower limbs, causing symptoms such as leg pain, numbness, and fatigue. Particularly in middle-aged and elderly individuals, such diseases are more likely to occur due to aging and hardening of the blood vessels.
5. Nerve-related diseases: Conditions such as intervertebral disc herniation and lumbar spinal stenosis may compress or irritate the nerve roots, causing radiating pain in the lower limbs. Additionally, peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes can also lead to soreness and numbness in both lower limbs.
If leg weakness and soreness persist, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital immediately.
