[20M] With acute calf pain and limited mobility

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible causes of your symptoms include:

• Muscle Strain: This is a common injury that happens when the muscle fibers tear as a result of overstretching. It can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Running and other physical activities are common causes.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help.

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg. It can cause pain, swelling, and redness. DVT is a serious condition because the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

  • Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medications to prevent the clot from getting bigger and to prevent new clots from forming.

• Compartment Syndrome: This is a painful condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels. It can be caused by a traumatic injury or repetitive activities like running.

  • Treatment typically involves surgery to relieve the pressure.

What you can do

You should seek immediate medical attention, especially if your pain is severe, you have swelling in your leg, or you have risk factors for DVT such as recent surgery, immobility, or a personal or family history of blood clots.

In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Rest and elevate your leg.
2. Apply a cold pack to the painful area for 15 minutes at a time.
3. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

• If your pain becomes severe or unbearable.
• If you have difficulty breathing or chest pain, as these could be signs of a pulmonary embolism, a serious condition where a blood clot travels to your lungs.
• If your leg becomes pale, cold, or numb, as these could be signs of compartment syndrome, a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Remember, I'm an AI and can't replace a real doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can examine you and accurately diagnose your condition.