Leg Pain After Sitting: What Can You Do?

You may have heard of people who experienced deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after taking a long airplane trip. Driving for long stretches at a time can affect your health the same as a long airplane ride. While it is not unusual to experience some pain from sitting, pain may also occur because of a more serious condition.

Prolonged sitting or standing can cause the fluid in the leg veins (venous congestion) to build up causing inflammation and pain. The end result can range from unsightly varicose veins or, the more serious DVT. There is also a chance of a pulmonary embolism in which blood clots break free and travel to the lungs. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor:

1. Swelling in one or both legs

2. Pain or tenderness in one or both legs (may occur only when standing or walking)

3. Warmth in the skin of the affected leg

4. Red or discolored skin in the affected leg

5. Visible surface veins

6. Leg fatigue

If you also experience sudden coughing that may bring up blood, sharp chest pain, rapid breathing or shortness of breath, or severe lightheadedness you may have a pulmonary embolism and you should seek medical treatment immediately.

Some tips to relieve the congestion include:

1. Wearing compression hosiery

2. Increasing physical activity

3. Elevating your legs above your heart for fifteen to thirty minutes when they are aching

4. Follow the tips from a previous article for getting exercise on the road.

If you are concerned about deep vein thrombosis, see your doctor. Your doctor may order a test such as an ultrasound, venography or MRI to confirm the diagnosis.

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