What Causes Popping Sensations In The Legs After Exercise?

Posted on Thu, 15 Sep 2016

Question: Hi. Please help me. I have had popping sensations in my legs for the past 2 weeks. I used to get it after exercise and it eventually wore off. This started after I had cycled to work and back but hasn't stopped although it isn't as bad as it was. My father died from MND 10 years ago and this is all I can think of. I am well apart from now having anxiety attacks worrying about this. My GP did strength tests on my legs which are fine and said he didn't think I had MND and is now sending me to a neurologist to confirm that but I am hoping it is not MND. What is your opinion? Am I stressing too much? I can't sleep or eat. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Albana Sejdini (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Don't think of MND,;it seems to be related to over-exercised from cycling..

Detailed Answer:
Hi my dear,

I have gone through your medical history carefully and understood your concern.

Let me recapitilize your case:
- 56 years old female
- actual symptoms: popping sensation in legs for past 2 weeks
- symptoms started after had cycled to work and back, but did not stop
- family history of father dying of MND
- GP confirming no MND, referred to neurologist

As per your description, it does not seem MND to me. After reviewing your case, I think you got over-exercised your legs when cycling work and back.
This is temporary, until your legs muscles will get used of this habitual exercise, and then, you won't feel anything.

For the moment, I advise to :
- apply alternating warm and cold compresses locally
- take magnesium supplements
- take anti-inflammatory meds like mephenamic acid or ibuprofen

until you see neurologist. I'm sure no MND will be detected though.
Hope this helps. Let me know if you have further queries.
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar