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.
Some of the more common causes of calf pain include: 1  Calf Muscle Strain. A calf muscle strain is the most common cause of acute onset calf pain. 2  Medial Gastrocnemius Strain. The medial gastrocnemius is the part of the calf muscle most commonly injured. 3  Plantaris Muscle Rupture.