Have you ever experienced sharp, intense pain in your legs and considered having someone sit or stand on them for relief? Experts advise against this method and emphasize the importance of identifying the underlying cause of the pain.

Dr. Anup Khatri, a senior consultant in orthopedics at Gleneagles Hospital in Mumbai, explains that leg pain can arise from various health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Additionally, issues with muscles such as the gluteus, hamstrings, calves, and adductors can contribute to discomfort.

Instead of ignoring the pain or relying on ineffective remedies, Dr. Khatri recommends engaging in regular physical exercises to maintain flexibility and mobility. Effective exercises include standing calf raises (15 repetitions, 3 sets), standing hip abduction (10 repetitions, 3 sets), and the bird dog exercise (10 repetitions per side, 12 sets), as suggested by fitness influencer Issac Choury.

Dr. Khatri notes that these exercises help strengthen the muscles, improving internal stability and reducing future pain. For example, standing hip abductions enhance the strength of the hip abductor muscles and improve pelvic stability during walking, while bird dogs and calf raises support overall muscle health and flexibility.

It’s crucial to perform these exercises under the guidance of a fitness trainer and maintain proper diet and hydration, as deficiencies in vitamin E and dehydration can also cause calf cramps and pain.

For optimal results and to avoid exacerbating the pain, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen.