Leg pain

[Cigarboy]

I get a pain in the side leg muscle between the calf and the ankle when I excercise by running or eliptical. It tighens up so I stop way before I get tired. Happens every time. Any ideas as far as treatment, hot or cold, stretching, etc.?

[Heidi]

The muscles running down the outside of the lower leg? If this is right then they are your peroneals. These are important in controlling pronation and supination movements in your foot/ankle.

I would therefore get a podiatrist or someone similar to look at the position of your feet when standing, walking and running. If you over pronate:
http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/general/pronate.htm

these muscles have to work extra hard and so become inflamed and tight.
If this is the case it can be treated with a pair of orthotics in your shoes/trainers and some massage and stretching treament.

Heidi

[Cigarboy]

Do I apply heat or ice?

[Heidi]

Do I apply heat or ice?

Ice immediately after activity. However this alone won't really help....you need some other exercises and to check out your feet too