Pervasive calf pain, or epidemiological soreness of the calf muscles, is a disease that takes away power in the legs. The pain in the calves is so severe that the patient is unable to walk. This type of leg pain most often occurs in children in early and late school age. What are the causes of the epidemiological soreness of the calf muscles? What is the treatment?

Pervasive calf painaka epidemiological calf soreness or acute mild myositis (BACM by Benign Acute Childhood Myositis), is a disease that causes calf pain that is so severe that he takes away the power in his legs.

Painful calf pain - causes

This type ofleg pain in a childmost often occurs afterflu infection. Influenza virus (especially the one from group B) causes damage (fortunately reversible) to striated muscles in some children for unknown reasons. Possible causes of frequent calf pain are also adenoviruses and enteroviruses.

Painful calf pain - symptoms

First there are so many symptoms of a cold, similar to a mild infection - increased body temperature, runny nose, cough.

Boys aged six to nine are sick most often.

Then (after 2 or 3 days) there is severe pain in the lower limbs (calves, feet and thighs), followed by difficulties with walking. Most symptoms disappear after 2-3 days. After this time, the child is back on his feet and is able to take a few steps. After a week, the symptoms disappear completely.

Painful calf pain - diagnosis

If a disease is suspected, blood tests are performed. Then, an increase in the activity of phosphocreatine kinase and liver enzymes is found.

Painful calf pain - treatment

The disease does not require a hospital stay. The patient has to stay in bed for several days for the muscles to regenerate. Rest and elimination of exercise are the basic principles of treatment. In addition, the patient is given painkillers and fluids to prevent dehydration. Do not give any antibiotics or antiviral medications.

Important

Guillain-Barré syndrome can cause similar symptoms. This disease can also be a complication of the flu, but it is much more serious. In some cases, it can cause paralysis, andeven lead to death. Therefore, any child who complains of leg pain should be carefully examined by a doctor.

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