
7 Causes for Tired and Aching Legs
Tired and aching legs are a common complaint among many people, but what are the underlying causes of this discomfort? It’s normal to feel these symptoms after a long day on your feet or after intense exercise. However, persistent discomfort may signal underlying health issues, including peripheral artery disease (PAD). Uncovering the causes of leg fatigue can help you know when it’s time to seek medical care. In this blog, we’ll break down seven common causes of tired, aching legs and reveal how they may be linked with PAD.
1. Prolonged Sitting or Standing
One of the most common causes of tired and aching legs is spending extended periods sitting or standing. Whether you work at a desk or are in industries that require you to be on your feet all day, stagnant blood flow can lead to swelling and discomfort in your legs. Patients can experience fatigue, heavy legs, or even pain when the blood pools in the lower extremities. For those who experience this discomfort regularly, it can often be resolved after moving around to encourage normal blood flow; however, if your symptoms persist, it could indicate underlying vascular issues, including PAD.
2. Muscle Fatigue
Another common cause of aching legs is engaging in high-intensity physical exercises, which cause stress to the lower extremities and result in muscle fatigue. We’ve all been there; after a workout or sports activity, you sit down only to feel a muscle cramp coming on. This type of muscle fatigue is normal and can usually be relieved with rest and rehydration. For those experiencing frequent or prolonged symptoms, reduced blood flow may cause more intense muscle fatigue and could signal possible PAD. If your muscle aches and fatigue seem to persist despite proper rest and care, it may be time to consider visiting a specialist to help diagnose the underlying causes of your issues.
3. Poor Circulation
Poor circulation can significantly contribute to the feeling of tired and aching legs and can be caused by several leading factors. These factors include diabetes, obesity, and smoking, which all increase the risk by restricting blood flow to the lower extremities, which can cause muscle fatigue and discomfort. When blood flow in your legs is restricted or reduced, your muscles don’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to feelings of heaviness, fatigue, and often pain. Common signs of poor circulation include feelings of cold feet or legs, numbness, and slow-healing wounds, so it’s crucial to be able to recognize these signs early on as these may indicate more serious health concerns, including peripheral artery disease.
4. Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that causes sensations of tingling, numbness, and pain, which all lead to feelings of fatigue. This condition is caused by damage to your peripheral nerves, which is caused by various health conditions such as diabetes. While peripheral neuropathy itself does not cause PAD, both conditions share risk factors, emphasizing the importance of monitoring your leg health. As a general rule of thumb, if you experience tingling and numbness, it may indicate peripheral neuropathy, whereas pain and cramping during physical activity are key indicators of PAD.
5. Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and lack of physical activity can all contribute to tired and aching legs by affecting circulation and muscle function. For example, smoking can be particularly troubling as it will damage blood vessels over time, which can likely lead to vascular diseases like PAD. To lower your risk of PAD and other health issues, it’s essential to monitor your well-being by maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating regular physical activity into your routine. This proactive approach promotes better blood circulation, alleviates symptoms of tired and aching legs, and reduces the likelihood of developing PAD.
6. Injury or Overuse
Injuries such as muscle strains can lead to localized pain and discomfort in your legs. Similarly, overuse injuries from repetitive motions can cause muscle fatigue and soreness. Even though these injuries can resolve themselves with proper care and rest, persistent discomfort or pain following an injury may indicate a more significant issue such as PAD.
7. Underlying Health Conditions
Various underlying health conditions can contribute to tired and aching legs. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can affect blood circulation and lead to leg discomfort. Recognizing the connection between these health conditions and PAD is vital for early intervention and proper treatment. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help you manage your conditions and monitor any symptoms related to leg discomfort.
The Connection to Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Even though tired and aching legs can stem from several causes, it’s important to consider the role of PAD, especially if your symptoms persist. PAD occurs when cholesterol plaque gradually builds up in the arteries, reducing blood flow to the legs. This ultimately exacerbates the feeling of tiredness and aching, particularly during physical activities like walking, running, or exercising. Other common symptoms of PAD to be aware of include:
- Pain or cramping in legs during physical activity (claudication)
- A feeling of coldness in one leg
- Weakness or numbness
- Slow-healing wounds or sores on the legs
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to consult with a vascular specialist for further evaluation and proper intervention.
Schedule an Appointment with American Endovascular
At American Endovascular, our team of vascular specialists is dedicated to providing every patient with the highest quality care possible. With multiple locations across NY and NJ, your journey towards better leg health couldn’t be easier. So don’t let tired and aching legs hold you back from living the life you deserve. Please schedule an appointment online or call us at your nearest American Endovascular location today to take the first steps towards healthier, pain-free legs!
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