Peripheral artery disease (P.A.D.) is a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your head, organs, and limbs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue, and other substances in the blood.
Painless swelling may affect both legs and may include the calves or even the thighs. The effect of gravity makes the swelling most noticeable in the lower part of the body. Foot, leg, and ankle swelling is common when the person also: Is overweight.
Swelling or bruising in the calf muscle will be apparent in severe calf muscle tears. What Causes a Calf Muscle Tear? Calf muscle tears usually occur during acceleration or changes in direction eg a change of running speed. However, there is a small percentage of the populations who can tear their calf muscle by simply walking. The most common calf muscle that is torn is your medial gastrocnemius. Shields et al (1985).