Leg pain might begin as a dull ache and then develop into a burning sensation. It can be temporary or continuous. Depending on its cause and severity, the condition can lead to weakness and limit your physical activities.
At Specialized Physical Therapy, we aim to use the most effective exercises and mobilization techniques to achieve relief and better flexibility.
Overview
Leg pain can be caused by any condition that affects the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, skin, or blood vessels of the leg. We consider it a symptom of an underlying health issue that may require immediate treatment.
The symptom usually occurs due to leg tissue inflammation. When that happens, the leg muscles become tender and swollen. Common reasons for inflamed leg muscles include a foot injury, infection, or associated medical complication. Problems in the lower spine (such as sciatica) can also trigger noticeable leg pain.
This condition can range from a minor, dull ache to a stabbing sensation in the leg. Areas that are susceptible to pain include hamstrings, quadriceps, groin, knees, calves, and shins. The pain can be localized to a specific area and then spread throughout the lower limbs.
The overlapping causes of leg pain can make diagnosis difficult. That is why you need to take a complete physical evaluation to receive proper treatment.
Symptoms of Leg Pain
The leg pain symptoms may vary depending on the cause.
Common signs include:
- Throbbing pain in any part of the leg
- Numbness of the leg
- Generalized leg fatigue
- Weakness in the leg
- Muscle cramps
- A tingling sensation in the affected area
Causes of Leg Pain
- Overuse of leg muscles
- Muscle cramp
- Fungal, bacterial, or viral infections
- Injuries, such as hamstring injury, shin splints, muscle strain, tendinitis, and stress fractures
- Medical conditions, including arthritis, gout, varicose veins, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and deep vein thrombosis
- Slip disc
- Cancerous bone tumors in any of the larger leg bones
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Osgood-Schlatter disease
- Cartilage tears or rupture of tendons or ligaments
- Nerve damage in the leg
Leg Pain Diagnosis
If you experience leg pain due to a minor injury, overuse, or muscle cramps, you must visit our physical therapy clinic. Early diagnosis can prevent leg pain from escalating. Our physical therapists will conduct a general assessment during the first appointment.
We base our leg pain diagnosis on your current symptoms, medical history, and how the condition affects your ability to perform day-to-day activities.
Physical Therapy for Leg Pain Treatment
Our personalized physical therapy plans facilitate the natural healing process to offer relief. The program features easy stretching and strengthening exercises that improve muscle coordination and movement. We also encourage you to adopt a healthier and more active lifestyle to maintain flexibility and increase stamina.
If required, we can teach you ergonomic principles and recommend supportive shoes as a preventive measure. These steps will minimize the risk of leg pain when you return to your daily routine.
Call 201-773-8851 or contact us to discuss the possible cause and the proper physical therapy for leg pain program with a highly qualified and experienced physical therapist.