When it comes to bilateral lower leg pain in two legs, it can occur on any part between the ankles and knees. The leg pain can develop anywhere from the hips to the ankles and can be triggered by structures or tissues in other parts of the body such as the feet or lower back. The lower leg is the area in between the knees and the ankles. There are some conditions that can cause the pain to arise in the inferior leg on both sides of the body.
Shin splints
Shin splints or medial tibial stress syndrome can cause pain in the front part of the lower legs. The pain typically manifests on the edge of the tibia bone. The condition develops during or right after an increase in the intensity of exercise. The pain manifests once the tendons, muscles and thin layer of tissue that surrounds the tibia experience inflammation and swelling.
The signs and symptoms linked with shin splints include tenderness and pain along the shin, minimal swelling in the affected area and diminished ability to run or walk. Shin splints are a prevalent injury among both recreational and professional athletes.
Lumbar spinal stenosis
Lumbar spinal stenosis can cause bilateral lower leg pain. This condition involves constriction of the spinal canal which limits the space surrounding the spinal cord. Over time, as bony changes develop in the lumbar spine or lower back, the spinal canal narrows and adds pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots which cause pain, weakness and numbness in the lower legs.
The usual causes of lumbar spinal stenosis include degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis which causes the spinal ligaments to thicken which reduces the space for the spinal cord and nerve roots. The pressure on the spinal cord can cause symptoms in both legs. The signs and symptoms linked with lumbar spinal stenosis usually include burning pain in the lower legs, tingling and weakness in the lower extremities. The leg pain is reduced when sitting or leaning forward.
Peripheral artery disease
Peripheral artery disease can also cause bilateral lower leg pain. This condition develops once plaque builds up in the arteries that transport blood to the head, organs and extremities. The accumulation of plaque is called atherosclerosis that can cause the arteries to harden and constrict. The condition typically affects the legs, but can also reduce the flow of blood to the arms, head, kidneys and stomach. The signs and symptoms include sore cramping in the hip, calf or thigh muscles after activity, leg weakness and numbness, discoloration of the leg and diminished ability to heal wounds in the feet and legs.
Once an individual experiences bilateral lower leg pain that seems to persist or does not seem to subside, it might be caused by one of the conditions stated. It is best to consult a doctor for proper assessment of the condition.