Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Cramping Type Pain Calf Area?
Question: Yes, I am 63 years old, type 2 diabetic. I have been a runner for approximately 30 years. Last year I developed a cramping type pain in one of my calves after about 10 minutes of running. It has now gotten to the point that I am not able to run. I can't seem to figure out what the issue might be. I stretch before and after.
Brief Answer:
need to assess vascular system
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Pain is related to one or more of structures in a particular area, from the skin inwards.
In the leg, this would include the muscles and other soft tissue, the blood supply, the nerve supply, bones.
The gabapentin would have helped at least slightly if the pain was related to the nerve supply.
It is possible that it is related to the blood supply. Intermittent claudication refers to decreased blood supply in the limbs, typically the legs.
Pain occurs in the legs on walking or running due to the fact that at this time the muscles need more blood and are unable to get it.
The pain is relieved on rest in most cases.
You may want to consider a doppler ultrasound. This test can check the blood supply in the legs.
Your doctor can refer to a radiology center that can perform this test.
If the blood supply is assessed as normal then the other option would be an assessment by an orthopedic doctor who would look at the muscles and bones for any abnormalities.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
need to assess vascular system
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Pain is related to one or more of structures in a particular area, from the skin inwards.
In the leg, this would include the muscles and other soft tissue, the blood supply, the nerve supply, bones.
The gabapentin would have helped at least slightly if the pain was related to the nerve supply.
It is possible that it is related to the blood supply. Intermittent claudication refers to decreased blood supply in the limbs, typically the legs.
Pain occurs in the legs on walking or running due to the fact that at this time the muscles need more blood and are unable to get it.
The pain is relieved on rest in most cases.
You may want to consider a doppler ultrasound. This test can check the blood supply in the legs.
Your doctor can refer to a radiology center that can perform this test.
If the blood supply is assessed as normal then the other option would be an assessment by an orthopedic doctor who would look at the muscles and bones for any abnormalities.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
