Pain in your calf, could potentially be a clot. But, that doesn’t necessarily mean to run to your doctor’s office and tell him you have a blood clot. There are many other reasons you could be having calf pain. Circulatory problems, muscle strain, or a torn muscle are other possibilities. Here are a few of common causes of pain in the calf muscle.

Circulatory problems are very common in the calf muscles. If you suddenly have pains showing up during walking or other physical activity, it could be a sign of arterial insufficiency. This simply means that the arteries cannot supply enough blood and oxygen to the calf muscles. Hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis normally causes this. While arterial insufficiency is fairly common, the pain normally comes and goes quickly. It always starts during physical activity, and most likely stops within ten minutes of stopping activity. Go to your doctor if unexpected pain occurs and lasts more than three days.

Another possibility is muscle strain. A strain is an injury to your muscle or tendon. The symptoms include; muscle pain and/or spasms, weakness, swelling, and cramping. The symptoms are very similar to a blood clot. If you try the RICE treatment and your calf seems to be feeling better, than most likely it was just a muscle strain. The RICE treatment consists of rest, ice applied throughout the day, compression with an ace bandage, and elevation of the feet with pillows. Lifting heavy objects, or overstressing your muscles often causes muscle strain.

A blood clot blocks blood circulation through the veins that carry blood from the lower body to the heart. Common symptoms of a blood clot of the leg are; swelling, warmth to the touch, leg cramps, increased leg pain when bending the foot, and redness. A blood clot can resolve itself, but it can also be fatal. If a blood clot reaches your lungs, it can cause pulmonary embolism, which needs medical attention immediately. Either way, if you suspect a blood clot, call your healthcare provider.

There are so many different conditions associated with calf pain in the leg. The only surefire way to know exactly what is causing the pain is to see your doctor. If the pain gets too bad before you are able to see your doctor, then go to the emergency room. Only a professional can diagnose the muscle problems you are experiencing.

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