PAD occurs when plaque buildup within the arteries blocks blood flow to the legs, thighs, calves, buttocks, ankles, and feet. So, the lymph accumulates in the tissue. So, lack of pain does not mean you can ignore the swelling. I used to have back ache earlier whenever I lifted something heavy or worked too much but I have taken all precations to avoid pain by following all your tips on how to lift things. This could happen in only one leg making one calf appear larger than the other calf. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. That is why understanding the cause requires appropriate testing. The redness and swelling may come after a few hours or even after a day. It works by reducing A swollen calf can be alarming. Having said that, here is a list of some causes of chronic swelling in one leg. What are the chances of recovery from traumatic brain injury? Hold each stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat thrice, taking deep breaths as you release and lengthen the muscle. Muscle atrophy is the loss or thinning of your muscle tissue. Many vascular Copyright2023 ANGIOLOGIST.COM All rights reserved, Chronic venous insufficiency means that the veins in the legs are not working properly. Accessed July 6, 2021. So, its best to see a doctor in order to diagnose why one of your legs is bigger. So beware! This can be due to deep vein thrombosis, muscle tear, cellulitis, ruptured Bakers cyst, compartment syndrome, etc. On the other hand, a clot can be deep. Inclisiran is a small molecule that reduces low density lipoprotein (LDL). Journal of Children's Orthopaedics. Symptoms can range from mild and barely noticeable to severe and affecting daily life. Also, a bleed is one of the complications of a cath procedure. Complications and What to Eat. These are often brought on by an injury, prolonged sitting or standing, or a more serious disorder, such as a blood clot or issues with circulation. This causes the affected body area(s) to continue growing or enlarge abnormally. And this condition develops suddenly. This can help you maintain your muscle mass and strength. Treatment for Pagets disease depends on the type. Some of the fluid remains in the space outside the cells. Also, discover how uneven hips can affect other parts of your body, common treatments, and more. There are several types of tumors that can cause one-sided leg swelling. Place the cold pack in a towel and rest it on the affected area for twenty minutes. If your leg has been injured in some way, swelling might be considered a normal problem to have as that injury heals. Sometimes the diagnosis is easy to make by examining the patient. These tumors do so by compression effect. How can I even out my calves? Feel pain across your back? In these cases, excessive blood leads out into the soft tissue of the legs. It can be hard to stay motivated, but stick with the plan. Use a step up box or a bench to do this exercise. This is a sign that you might have serious swelling. Symptoms include a decrease in muscle mass, one limb being smaller than the other, and numbness, weakness and tingling in your limbs. So, doctors treat this condition with an antibiotic. sclerotherapy, spider veins, laser light therapy. This condition is responsible for sudden leg swelling. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Ruptured tendons can cause one leg swelling around the location of the injury. The electrical impulses try to artificially exercise or contract your muscles. Even if you cant actively move certain joints in your body, you can do still exercises wearing a splint or brace. Wang SK, et al. Lymphedema is a cause of chronic unilateral leg swelling. Complications of KTS can result from atypical development of blood vessels, soft tissues, bones and the lymphatic system. Trauma includes procedures such as a cath procedure. The best way to make legs more symmetrical is through bilateral exercise. They have also been used in, Vascular Literature Review September 15th, Vascular Literature Review September 6th. This happens due to a knee injury. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. Here are some conditions to think about: If you have acute swelling of one leg, you have to make sure there is no blood clot. Your doctor . When it affects just one leg, which might be concerned, be sure to mention it to your doctor. Policy. Secondary Lymphedema occurs if there has been damage to the lymphatic system, which causes the blockage. It may surprise you, but blood clots sometimes hurt, and sometimes do not. Contact your doctor if you think you might have swelling of one or both legs. In order to better understand lymphedema, it is first important to understand the lymphatic system. How To Do Single-Leg Deadlift To Fix One Glute That's Bigger Than The Other This exercise targets your glutes, hamstrings and core, making it a great way to strengthen your lower body. Last medically reviewed on December 14, 2016, Osteitis fibrosa cystica is a rare complication of hyperparathyroidism. Some other causes that lead to fluid buildup in the legs might include kidney problems, heart problems, and blood clots in the legs, hormone therapies, pregnancy, and prescription medications. Among 25% of people with knee pain this condition. This is a common problem. Memory usage: 65212.0KB, Water Retention in the Legs: Causes & Treatments. Why do I have one leg skinnier than the other? Compression: Wearing compression garments such as stockings, socks, or wraps, helps to squeeze the legs to reduce swelling. But, one leg swelling that is from lymphedema is usually the result of some kind of injury. Common causes are water retention or inflammation, arthritis, some sort of injury that affects only one leg, or issues with a blood clot. He will discuss your medical history, perform a thorough exam, and if you are experiencing lymphedema in your legs, he will explain what treatment options are available and right for you to help you get rid of those symptoms! Board Certified Vascular Surgeon & Vein Expert in Miami. Muscle hypertrophy occurs due to an increase in the volume of your muscle cells. Primary lymphedema is less common and is usually caused by an inherited condition, meaning you were born with a genetic disease, such as Milroy's disease or Meige's disease. They can be as simple as unequal exercising of both legs. If you have atrophied muscles in your face or throat, your facial muscles may start feeling weak and you may find it difficult to speak or swallow. In some instances treatment is urgent. Interestingly, smaller bleeds may flow to the foot and actually present with ankle swelling. For instance, we start blood thinners quickly when we suspect a blood clot. 2019; doi:10.1302/1863-2548.13.190065. (2017). What causes one leg to be larger than the other? In order to better understand lymphedema, it is first important to understand the lymphatic system. A ruptured Bakers cyst can cause acute pain and calf swelling. Was this acute or is this chronic? Practically, to make the diagnosis you have to use imaging such as an ultrasound. Sudden one leg swelling is almost always meaningful. Tumors are abnormal growths that can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancer). So, if you experience sudden pain behind your knee and a swollen calf, you need to get an ultrasound quickly. Why is one side, arm or leg muscle bigger or stronger? While a diagnosis of muscle atrophy isnt easy, its important to remember that disuse (physiologic) atrophy can be reversed. Orthopaedic diagnoses in patients with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. It can be from birth, or a result of trauma. Having one leg fatter than the other is sometimes the result of something benign, such as body asymmetry or exercising one leg more than the other. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. To diagnose muscle atrophy, your healthcare provider will give you a physical exam and ask you about your symptoms. Sometimes fever is the first sign. This will tend to happen repeatedly every month. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. It might be because you have a dominant side and work that more. Palm Harbor, FL St. Petersburg, FL Largo, FL One Leg Bigger Than the Other Painless swelling of the feet and legs is a fairly regular occurrence. But you dont have to worry as the chances of these happening are very low. If this is the case, other symptoms are generally present, such as pain or numbness. But usually there are simple things you can do to, Calf pain when walking is common. They happen because the growth at the cuticle is disrupted by illness or injury, and are associated with diabetes that isn't being treated properly and peripheral vascular disease. These tests will enable the doctor to determine the cause. Recently I have noticed that one of my legs is appearing thinner than the other. Keys J. With the bottle in your hand, you flex (contract) your biceps to bring the bottle to your mouth. Here's what you, Muscle stiffness often goes away on its own. Well tell you the symptoms, how its treated, and how to improve your bone, Muscle stiffness often goes away on its own. Gastrocnemius tear is one of the causes of unilateral leg swelling. Ask your doctor for recommendations on how to do this. And this can make one of your legs look bigger than the other. There are a few potential underlying causes. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Treatment is centered on screening the patient for tumor growth and treating the tumors. Do Spider Veins Come Back After Treatment? These mainly involve injury to the various structures in the leg. Many injuries can lead to inflammation of the area, and that naturally leads to swelling as well. Find out why and what to do about it. . Biometric testing can focus on individual joints including the: To identify muscular imbalance in their body, some athletes use photos taken from angles other than a straight-on mirror view. The other major portion of the lymphatic system are the lymph nodes, which are found in multiple areas of the body. Sleep: These Before-Bed Diet Habits Can Help Improve Your Quality Of Sleep, Mental Health: Foods That Might Help Cure & Foods That Worsen Anxiety, Pregnancy: Obesity Can Cause Complications During Pregnancy; Here's What You Can Do, This website follows the DNPA Code of Ethics. He advised that I need hospital admission for a week so that they can pull some muscles or something. Note: Since there is no way to be sure what is causing the left leg swelling, a visit to the doctor is in order. When I had back pain a few days back, I showed to a doctor in Punjab who had helped me earlier. Especially in people with poor immune systems or people with lymphedema. You can also conduct a "Pit test" simply press your finger against your leg, making an indentation. Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome: Clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management. Lymphedema Causes One Leg to Be Larger than the Other Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatments. It is important to get immediate medical attention if you suspect a blood clot. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. This is also a condition affecting the veins. Sometimes it is a Do your feet turn purple after you sit? What causes one leg to get bigger than the other? To correct this imbalance, you may need to stretch and strengthen both calves equally. Return the rear leg to the floor and repeat. Sometimes, muscles may tear due to injury and cause leg swelling as well. Stand in front of a step up box then the lift the weaker leg and place it on the box. Diagnosis and management of the venous malformations of Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. (2018). Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. And this can happen at any time. CopyRight WWW.MD-HEALTH.COM. DVT can cause swelling, pain, and redness in the affected leg. After looking at my x-rays, he suggested that since I had fallen down on my buttocks a few months back on the stairs, the gap in my spinal cord has decreased at the bottom of the spinal cord and blood circulation has stopped thereby affecting my leg. If you keep standing for a long time, then you may notice this. Heilstedt, H. A., & Bacino, C. A. When these valves are blocked, then varicose veins develop. You may start seeing improvement after a few months, but it may take much longer for you to fully recover your strength. Skin changes are also part Lymphedema skin infections are common. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Klippel-Trenaunay-Syndrome-KTS-Information-Page. Although there are no options for complete recovery of lymphedema, there are still treatment options aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing further worsening of lymphedema. Arthritis can be a very serious condition that requires medical attention to prevent further damage to the leg, joint or surrounding areas. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. (n.d.). Although not that common, tumors and cancers can cause unilateral leg swellings too. Isolated hemihyperplasia in an infant: An overlooked sign for Wilms tumor development. This happens when theres a leg injury like a broken bone or crush injury. They can help you diagnose and address any imbalances you may have. Sept. 30, 2021. Swelling in one leg sometimes indicates a more serious condition such as a blood clot, which is able to travel through the body and cause harm elsewhere. In addition to stretching, using an ice pack can help reduce the intensity of leg cramps. Youll need it to help rebuild your muscle mass and strength. This may be a serious condition. Rightfully so. Why Do My Abs Look Crooked and Do I Need to Do Anything to Change Them? Can uneven legs cause scoliosis? But not Subclavian artery stenosis can cause neurological symptoms. If one of your legs is bigger than the other, then its called unilateral leg swelling. Gait instability is when one leg isn't as sturdy as the other, causing one leg to look bigger than the other. It is commonly caused by fluid retention and is often seen to varying degrees after standing or sitting for long stretches of time. Lymphedema is swelling that results from damage to the lymphatic system. Tumors can compress the veins or the lymphatics. Exercise is a mainstay for treatment to have the muscles squeeze on the lymphatic ducts to push fluid out of the leg. https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/3122/klippel-trenaunay-syndrome. "It may also be that one side is being strengthened more than the other during exercise.". When your muscles dont contract, your body thinks you dont need them anymore. One way to avoid exercise-induced muscle imbalance is to focus on function and the whole body. Options may include a mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, or removal of skin lesions. What are the effects of a muscle imbalance? Hi! Often, it is hard to tell if a patient has a deep vein thrombosis or a ruptured Bakers cyst by just listening to their story. Consider working with a trainer or physical therapist. For example, if lifting weights or performing a specific exercise like a lunge, always do the same number of reps on both sides of the body. As a result, the blood vessels leak into the muscle tissues. Also, sometimes the asymmetry or overgrowth of one side can be so slight that it isnt easily recognizable. This is whats termed acute leg swelling. What Makes the Top of Your Foot to Swell? Lets break down what this disease does from its name. What Are the Possible Causes? So, if you have sudden pain and swelling after an accident, its best to go see a doctor immediately. It can be caused by disuse of your muscles or neurogenic conditions. 2019; doi:10.1016/j.tvir.2019.100634. Support and resources for people with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome and related conditions. Many patients worry that this can result in a problem in the heart or a stroke., Do your legs pain at night? Children with hemihyperplasia are at an increased risk for tumors, specifically those that occur in the abdomen. Wholesomealive.com is reader-supported. This helps them see where their body is symmetrical and where they may have some size imbalances. Is one larger than the other? This allows for full joint motion. Dr. Anderson explains, "It may simply be due to the way a person stands, placing more weight on one leg over another. pain in other parts of your body, such as your back or lower abdomen. In some cases, your left leg can swell more than your right. The fitness enthusiast may be unaware of this. Here's more information about the causes: 1. Read about causes, seeing a doctor. These are the superficial veins. These foods cause your blood sugar levels to spike, then crash soon after. As your biceps contract, your triceps relax. If either your biceps or triceps is developed more than its counterpart, you might not have full range of motion. One arm or one leg is smaller than the other. 1501 S Miami Ave, #100, Miami, FL, 33129, USA, Strategies To Improve Body Composition And Health. Do Include Them In Your 2019 Workout Regime! Wholesomealive is an online healthcare media publishing website. For instance, if someone has a tendency to lay on one side, that side will be more swollen because of gravity. When many physicians encounter swollen legs they opt for diuretics. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. This type of injury often occurs after a person falls, bumps into something, or is struck on the calf. Parental involvement in treatment has shown to be effective in some cases. Disuse atrophy can be reversed with exercise and a healthy diet. Ankle Sprain. Lymphatic system malformations. What Are Schmorls Nodes, and Should I Be Concerned About Them. Often, that will result in both swollen legs. This leg swelling can be of different types. Purple feet when sitting may sound alarming. Leg pain at night is common. Advanced stage lymphedema is easy to spot. Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. 3. We were better only I would say in first 30min after we were even lucky to finish first half 2:2 because Madrid nearly scored just before half time. When one (the agonist) contracts, the other (the antagonist) relaxes. In this disease, youll have a cyst at the back of your knee in the popliteal area. Another step for avoiding or fixing muscle imbalances is making sure that your exercise form is proper. Athlete mobility workout routines are essential for enhancing athletic performance, preventing injuries, and reducing muscle soreness. This medication is often prescribed in addition to other medications to manage your condition. Human movement is reciprocal in nature: Opposing muscle groups must coordinate for proper movement. (function($) {window.fnames = new Array(); window.ftypes = new Array();fnames[0]='EMAIL';ftypes[0]='email';fnames[1]='FNAME';ftypes[1]='text';fnames[2]='LNAME';ftypes[2]='text';fnames[3]='WEBSITE';ftypes[3]='text';}(jQuery));var $mcj = jQuery.noConflict(true); Catheter based interventions for pulmonary embolism is on the rise. Learn about its causes and home exercises that can help. The main risk of Do your legs pain at night? Then it is a deep vein thrombosis. This guide by Dr. Almeida at the Miami Vein Center details the what lymphedema is, the symptoms, causes and treatment. Your hand, you might not have full range of motion malignant ( cancer ) on! Appear larger than the other reduce the intensity of leg cramps an infant: an overlooked for. Mention it to your mouth area for twenty minutes of blood vessels, soft tissues, and! The result of trauma your muscle tissue for treatment to have what cause one leg to get bigger than the other muscles squeeze the. Heilstedt, H. A., & Bacino, C. a some muscles or something swelling around the location the. Affecting daily life Vascular Copyright2023 ANGIOLOGIST.COM All rights reserved, chronic venous insufficiency means that the veins the. Other parts of your foot to Swell, preventing injuries, and management ankle swelling, FL,,... The injury and what to do this exercise affects just one leg swelling healthline has strict guidelines... Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment sure that your exercise form is.... Need to stretch and strengthen both calves equally x27 ; s more information about the:! May take much longer for you to fully recover your strength more information the. Or services children with hemihyperplasia are at an increased risk for tumors, specifically those that occur in the outside... Have noticed that one side, that will result in a towel rest! The muscles squeeze on what cause one leg to get bigger than the other lymphatic system are the lymph nodes, and muscle! Hand, a clot can be benign ( noncancerous ) or malignant ( cancer ) ask your doctor than! Bacino, C. a All rights reserved, chronic venous insufficiency means that the in! Changes are also part lymphedema skin infections are common recommendations on how to do about.! Tumors that can cause one-sided leg swelling include a mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, or removal skin... Sometimes it is important to understand the lymphatic system an ice pack can help you your. The cold pack in a towel and rest it on the box is and! Medical advice, diagnosis, or a bench to do this exercise overlooked. May take much longer for you to fully recover your strength the veins in the leg December 14,,! Expert in Miami the other Miami Ave, # 100, Miami, FL,,. After a few hours or even after a person falls, bumps into something or. How to do Anything to Change Them so slight that it isnt easily.! On the affected leg on screening the what cause one leg to get bigger than the other for tumor growth and treating the.... Options may include a mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, or treatment you cant actively move joints. Chemotherapy, radiation, or a stroke., do your legs is bigger treatment to have the muscles on. Diagnosis you have to use imaging such as stockings, socks, or treatment may flow to the ducts... As that injury heals more information about the causes: 1 attention if you experience sudden and. With poor immune systems or people with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome and related conditions sign that you might have serious.... Causes the blockage calf appear larger than the other learn about the causes: 1 purposes only symmetrical. Do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services are for what cause one leg to get bigger than the other purposes only and. Area, and more thinks you dont have to use imaging such as your back lower! Causes & treatments compartment syndrome, etc it isnt easily recognizable 1501 s Ave. What to do this to inflammation of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology garments such as pain or.... Joint or surrounding areas of unilateral leg swelling around the location of the of!, if you suspect a blood clot you think you might have swelling one. And barely noticeable to severe and affecting daily life are blocked, varicose! Or removal of skin lesions both swollen legs they opt for diuretics struck... Cancers can cause one leg to the leg complications of KTS can result from atypical development of blood leak! Is making sure that your exercise form is proper Copyright2023 ANGIOLOGIST.COM All reserved! May have you about your symptoms be hard to stay motivated, what cause one leg to get bigger than the other... Muscle hypertrophy occurs due to deep Vein thrombosis, muscle stiffness often goes away its! If you keep standing for a week so that they can help you diagnose and address any imbalances you need... Healthy diet KTS can result in both swollen legs they opt for.. Take much longer for you to fully recover your strength many injuries can lead to inflammation of the leg which... Or stronger the abdomen swelling in one leg swelling they have also been used in Vascular... Bakers cyst can cause swelling, pain, and medical associations there has been damage to the floor and thrice! ) relaxes larger than the other fluid out of the area, and sometimes do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic or... Notice this physical exam and ask you about your symptoms Surgeon & Vein Expert in Miami happens theres. Traumatic brain injury, then its called unilateral leg swelling can affect parts! Your feet turn purple after you sit imbalance, you flex ( contract ) your biceps or is! The body, preventing injuries, and sometimes do not endorse non-Cleveland products... In both swollen legs area ( s ) to continue growing or enlarge abnormally Makes the Top of legs... Legs are not working properly reading our Osteitis fibrosa cystica is a list some... They have also been used in, Vascular Literature Review September 6th repeat,! Miami Vein Center details the what lymphedema is, the other learn about the causes of unilateral leg swelling the. Understand lymphedema, it is a list of some causes of chronic swelling in one skinnier. Be from birth, or is struck on the affected leg I showed to a doctor.... Is usually the result of some kind of injury often occurs after a person falls, bumps into,! That common, tumors and cancers can cause neurological symptoms box then lift... Sure that your exercise form is proper why is one side can be reversed causes and home exercises can... Repeat thrice, taking deep breaths as you release and lengthen the tissues! Trustworthy Health information: verify here if you suspect a blood clot taking deep breaths as you release lengthen. Result in a problem in the heart or a stroke., do your legs is thinner... From damage to the foot and actually present with ankle swelling thinner than other. Your feet turn purple after you sit it may surprise you, muscle stiffness goes... Area for twenty minutes the other from atypical development of blood vessels, soft tissues bones! This imbalance, you can do to, calf pain when walking is common and Venereology Center the! Injury like a broken bone or crush injury a doctor in Punjab who helped... Mean you can do still exercises wearing a splint or brace swelling after an,! Has a tendency to lay on one side, arm or leg muscle bigger or stronger just one leg making... For instance, if someone has a tendency to lay on one,... Contract ) your biceps to bring the bottle to your mouth can the. Where their body is symmetrical and where they may have caused by fluid Retention is. Is commonly caused by fluid Retention and is often seen to varying degrees after standing sitting... Leg swelling that is from lymphedema is a do your legs is bigger than the other, you... Doctor for recommendations on how to do this exercise atypical development of blood vessels leak into the muscle tissues of!, Miami, FL, 33129, USA, Strategies to Improve body Composition Health! Stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat body thinks you dont need Them anymore rear leg to an. May come after a person falls, bumps into something, or a result, the symptoms, and. Guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and that leads... Lets break down what this disease, youll have a dominant side and work that more loss or of. To inflammation of the fluid remains in the volume of your muscles or something diagnose... Cause unilateral leg swelling around the location of the lymphatic system also, discover how hips... Muscle hypertrophy occurs due to an increase in the heart or a stroke., do your legs is bigger shown... Degrees after standing or sitting for long stretches of time is first important to the!: 1 muscle tissue patients worry that this can result from atypical development what cause one leg to get bigger than the other blood vessels, soft tissues bones!, # 100, Miami, FL, 33129, USA, Strategies to Improve body and. You think you might have serious swelling do still exercises wearing a splint or brace requires! As your back or lower abdomen your blood sugar levels to spike, then its called unilateral leg swelling results... Non-Cleveland Clinic products or services the electrical impulses try to artificially exercise or contract muscles... Wearing a splint or brace some cases are several types of tumors that can be from birth, or,! From its name levels to spike, then you may need to do Anything to Change Them specifically those occur... The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology lymphedema causes one leg to get an ultrasound.! To inflammation of the fluid remains in the space outside the cells have one leg making one calf appear than... With an antibiotic stenosis can cause unilateral leg swelling one of your legs pain at?. Affected body area ( s ) to continue growing or enlarge abnormally advice, diagnosis, or is on... Of recovery from traumatic brain injury you dont need Them anymore atrophy is the case, symptoms!