Leg pain: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

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Join Airrosti’s Jenay Zelaya, DC, as she discusses the different causes and types of leg pain that could be associated with quad strains, hamstring pulls, and Achilles tendonitis. Learn more about traditional leg pain treatment methods and how Airrosti can help relieve leg pain in as few as three visits (based on patient-reported outcomes).

WHAT CAUSES LEG PAIN?

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Leg pain often appears when overuse or trauma affects one of the muscles, ligaments, tendons, or other soft tissues within the lower body. These injuries occur frequently during activities that involve heavy, repeated use of the legs, like running, jumping, or kicking.

Even Individuals who aren’t active can also struggle with leg problems. Muscles weakened from lack of use and possible nerve issues can all become risk factors for painful leg conditions.

Some common causes of leg pain include:

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A LEG INJURY?

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When it comes to soft tissue leg injuries, pain is often experienced in one of the many leg muscles and joints. In the upper leg, the quads, hamstrings, and IT band may be affected. In the lower legs, common areas of injury are the knees, shins, and calves, down to the ankles and feet.

Symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and location of the injury. The most common symptoms of a leg injury involve restricted movement and increased pain during activity.

Depending on your condition, you may experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Dull, aching pain that worsens with movement
  • Stiffness or reduced mobility
  • Muscle cramps or spasms
  • Pain that may radiate up or down the entirety of the leg
  • Difficulty putting weight on the affected leg
  • Swelling, bruising, or redness in the affected leg

REFERRED LEG PAIN

When it comes to soft tissue leg injuries, pain is often experienced in one of the many leg muscles and joints. In the upper leg, the quads, hamstrings, and IT band may be affected. In the lower legs, common areas of injury are the knees, shins, and calves, down to the ankles and feet.

Symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and location of the injury. The most common symptoms of a leg injury involve restricted movement and increased pain during activity.

Depending on your condition, you may experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Dull, aching pain that worsens with movement
  • Stiffness or reduced mobility
  • Muscle cramps or spasms
  • Pain that may radiate up or down the entirety of the leg
  • Difficulty putting weight on the affected leg
  • Swelling, bruising, or redness in the affected leg

TRADITIONAL TREATMENTS FOR LEG PAIN

Proper medical treatment for problems within the leg depends on the precise cause of pain. Your doctor may order tests such as X-Rays and MRIs to diagnose potential causes of pain and help determine the best treatment for your injury.

In most cases, your doctor may recommend a combination of rest, ice or heat, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or injections for help relieving pain. Your doctor may recommend surgery or physical therapy if you have a severe leg injury, such as torn soft tissues or fractures.

HOW AIRROSTI CAN HELP: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT FOR LEG PAIN RELIEF

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While some injuries can resolve themselves in time with conservative care, many cases can persist for months or even years, restricting your mobility and reducing your quality of life.

Airrosti providers are dedicated to diagnosing and treating pain at the source with hands-on manual therapy and targeted active rehab exercises designed to restore leg strength and function. We also share educational tools and resources you can use to address pain at home to continue to live pain free.

Don’t let leg pain continue to drag you down. Call us at (877) 345-6802 and schedule your appointment today. We offer both in-office and virtual appointments to best suit your needs.

Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic

Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.

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