I had back surgery in 2008. Artificial disc L5/S1. Surgery was a success! Since surgery, I've had terrible calf pain in both legs. So bad that after surgery I had to tape Icy Hot patches to the backs of my legs. I've had two ultra sounds on my legs, and they were both normal. My calfs are so tight and constricted that I can't sleep at night. The pain and constriction seems to happen randomly. I will be fine for a few months, then back to muscle pain. I'm constantly trying to stretch my calfs out and massage them. Massage is pure agony, my muscles feel as if they are in a huge knot. My orthopedic surgeon said I "need to heal", but It's been 4 years! I even had a professional massage and nothing has helped. I've tried topical Keflex and Robaxin, and nothing seems to take the constriction out of my muscles. My surgery was done through my abdomen if that makes any difference. Please help!
Because you have no numbness with the pain I doubt that this is a sign of continued nerve compression in you back. also nerve compression over 4 years would result in atrophy of the muscles in your legs. The nerve compression would also be constant and not intermittent such as yours are. Several possibilities.:Severe Restless leg syndrome. fairly common problem. I have this. My symptoms are the same as yours.Multiple good treatments, but they do not work every night, This is why i am answering your question at 3:300 am est.Muscle problem not related to surgery.I would see a Neurologist for further evaluation and treatment of these two possibilities.You could have a vascular insufficiency with the blood supply in your legs. The ultrasound only shows large veins and arteries. Other more extensive testing tell h]much more about the blood flow. If neurological tests negative, i would see a vascular surgeon for further evaluation,Sorry. With our these testing it is impossible to make a diagnosis and suggest any treatment. Hope this helps. Dr S
Thank you. I will see my primary doctor for a referral. I didn't think it was RLS because I was simply stretching my calfs, I though RLS was the urge to move your legs for no reason.