Heavy legs can be described as a feeling whereby the individual experiences an unusual amount of additional weight in their legs, thus making them difficult to operate in a standard fashion. This syndrome may also result in one’s legs feeling stiff at times and experiencing regular tiredness.
There are many of reasons that an individual might experience this problem, and it is essential for someone suffering from this condition to determine the source of the complication as soon as possible. This fast reaction will ensure that any serious problems can be countered in the shortest time possible, thus increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Some of the causes of heavy leg syndrome can include:
Peripheral Arterial Disease
This is a condition whereby the arteries of an individual take on a narrower shape as a result of the accumulation of fatty deposits on the walls of these blood vessels. This reduces the amount of blood circulation enjoyed in this area, resulting in adverse reactions such as cramping, tiredness, and aching legs. Though this disease can affect any part of the body, it is most common in the lower limbs and can cause the development of heavy leg syndrome. The buildup of these deposits can occur as a result of diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol, and bad habits such as smoking as well.
Restless Leg Syndrome
This is a peculiar condition that has not yet been fully explained by the medical world in relation to what causes it to emerge. It is a condition whereby the patient suffers discomfort in the legs when they are at a standstill, with the annoying sensation dissipating once the person is on the move again. Those who may be seeking answers to what causes your legs to feel heavy might be suffering from this problem, and common symptoms include an aching, throbbing or crawling feeling that occurs during resting periods. Some of the people who are at risk from suffering from this complication include individuals who smoke and drink, have experienced nerve damage, are pregnant, or are under certain medications that might elicit some negative responses.
Excessive Training
Athletes who suffer from heavy leg syndrome usually do so as a result of pushing their body beyond the limits of what they can physically endure. Many sports personalities like to strive towards the breaking point during every session in a bid to enhance their endurance, and at times might not give the body enough time to recover properly before the next stretch. This can lead to heavy legs, especially if such a practice is undertaken on a daily basis. Adequate rest and pacing one’s self during such activities are simple ways of effectively treating this syndrome in such cases.
Varicose Veins
This is a condition whereby the affected veins take on a distorted form usually in the legs and feet of the individual. This occurs when the vessels in question lose their elasticity resulting in a weakening of the valves in those sections. This condition usually emerges as a person ages, but can be hereditary and is experienced with some pregnancies and cases of obesity as well. Different treatments are available depending on the particular cause of the situation.