Tightness of the muscles of the legs is a symptom linked to a host of conditions. The common conditions include osteoarthritis of the knee, osteoporosis associated with joint pain and nervous dysfunction. Muscle tightness in the legs can interfere with general mobility of an individual, though the condition is usually self limiting.
What Causes Muscle Tightness In Legs?
Muscle tightness in the legs is a sensation which is associated with cramps in legs. Muscle cramps may occur due to a variety of reasons, however some of the more common causes include,
- Dehydration, which leads to drop in the levels of sodium, calcium, potassium or magnesium levels in the body.
- Certain medications like diuretics and statins can lead to cramps especially since they alter the metabolic functioning of the cells.
- Muscle fatigue, often caused due to overexertion or overuse can also lead to cramps and tightness in the legs.
- Injuries namely tearing or stretching of muscles, stress or hairline fractures and inflammation of the tendons or splints can lead to cramps and pain the legs.
While muscle tightness is a unique sensation, often tightness of the muscle may be coupled with pain in the leg due to a host of vascular and nervous conditions. Some of these conditions include,
- Peripheral atherosclerosis which results in arterial blockage and subsequent claudications in the legs.
- Deep vein thrombosis can also lead to pain in the legs with sensation of tightness.
- Inflammatory conditions like arthritis or inflammation of the bone can also manifest as muscle tightness.
- Nerve damage caused among alcoholics, smokers and diabetics can lead to muscle tightness, coupled with tingling and numbness.
- Varicose veins in another vascular disorder that can lead to pain in the legs and sensation of muscle tightness.
Other less frequently observed conditions could include benign or malignant tumors, sciatic nerve compression and pain and legg-calve-perthes disease.
Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Muscle Tension In Legs
Home care is selectively effective and can help alleviate some of the symptoms. It is essential to consult your physician in order to be able to identify the underlying cause and deal with it appropriately,
- Rest is critical in management of this condition.
- Keep your feet elevated, especially above the level of the heart. Elevation technique helps promote flow of blood to the heart. This is effective in case of deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins.
- Local application of ice is effective in cases of inflammation. Ice helps reduce the inflammation and hastens healing.
- Massaging the feet with essential oils like lavender or clove is very effective. This promotes blood flow and helps in release of toxins accumulated in the muscle tissue.
- In case of vomiting or diarrhea, ensure that you remain adequately hydrated. Add one pinch of salt, a few drops of lemon and a tablespoon of sugar to a glass of water. Consume this as required to remain hydrated. This will help deal with electrolyte imbalance, which may be created due to fluid loss.
- Homeopathic drug, Bryonia and Rhus Tox can be potentially beneficial to deal with the condition.
Management of diabetes and avoiding alcohol is critical to manage this condition, especially if they are found to be the underlying causes. Avoid ill fitted shoes, which may also be a contributing factor.