Oldguy

Hi Andrea and Lauri, I'm not going to say that it's not likely this is periferal claudication (lameness and pain) because it's worth checking out to be safe. Periferal claudication is generally the result presented by diabetics suffering high cholesterol and triglycerides which has led to atherosclerosis in the arteries of the extremeties. In cases of hyperlipidemia, (cholesterol over 400 and triglycerides over 1000) the blood platelets can form aggregates that prohibit adequate blood flow through the blood microvessels. (This is generally treated with blood thinners). The pain manifests itself in the form of spasms, or "Charley horses" generally in the calves, instep, and/or the backside of the thigh (Hamstring). The inadequate blood flow results in the muscles getting their energy from their glycogen stores anaerobicly (without oxygen) due to the inadequate supply of blood oxygen. This generates lactic acid as a waste, which builds up in the muscle and causes spasms. The spasm generates more lactic acid which increases the spasm; and on and on. Often, these symptoms also result from inadequate calcium and potassium intake, both of which are required in the transport of oxygen through the cell walls and walls of the mitochondria therein. (The latter are the powerplants of the cells.) Although the spasms can occur during excercise, they most often occur afterwards, or at night when you lay down to rest. Whether it's possible shin splints, which occur only on the front of the legs, or something else, it has to be investigated by a good general practice doc who will determine if you need specialized help. Let us know how it turns out....
God bless and help you, Oldguy