To wonder how on earth I could have strained my calves walking up steps

[Mountainatmygates]

I am a relatively fit 49 year old who does lots of circuit training etc but I have had a couple of months where it’s been a bit erratic

Anyway, am on hols in France & I went to a cave - there were steps down (400) then 170 up and then another 140 back down so lots of steps. My legs felt really weak & wobbly after which I thought was odd & then ever since (for 3 days) I have been in agony with what feels like calf strain- really sore calf muscles to touch, feeling stiff & strained. The right one is a bit better today but the left one is still really painful. Nor get helped by a 10 hour drive through France yesterday.

Aibu to think WTF? My (unfit) DP has had no issues so how can some steps cause me agony for 3 days?!

Were you dehydrated or carrying a heavy bag? I've had something similar and think it was related to this.

@GabriellaMontez actually I did have a heavy bag and to be honest I think I have been on the edge of dehydration for the last 2 weeks as it’s been insanely hot in France. I actually had some electrolytes when I got back to the campsite on Thurs. Can it affect calf muscles if you are dehydrated?

Do you get cramps at all? Sometimes I wake up with a really sore calf from cramping, which is worse when dehydrated.

@Paniniandsalad nothing like this really- maybe occasionally since perimenopause started- this feels like muscle strain- it’s so weird

Then it probably is.

That’s a lot of steps.