There are many different reasons for leg pain. However, the most common reasons are overuse injuries. Although it’s also possible that the pain is a symptom of another condition. And it can be intermittent or constant. It can also vary from throbbing and achy to sharp, searing sensations. Leg pain and numbness go hand and hand.
It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis. This way, you will get the most effective treatment. Understanding the causes of leg pain and numbness is the first step. When you know the symptoms, you can better identify the cause. Therefore, treatment can reduce your discomfort.
How Does The Pain Occur?
Problems in the lower back or pelvis can cause leg pain. Issues within the leg itself can also cause pain. Strain, dehydration, and stress can cause this pain. Additionally, poor posture, job-related activity, and genetics can be factors. The conditions that are the most common causes of it include the following:
Spinal nerve issues: Compressed or irritated nerves in the lumbar spine affect the legs. It can cause radiculopathy known as a pinched nerve. Nerves can also be damaged along their path down the leg. Therefore, this will cause peripheral neuropathy in the affected leg. One of the most common radiculopathies is sciatica.
Spinal cord compression: If the spinal canal in the neck becomes narrow, pressure increases. The affected nerves can signal pain down the legs. This usually happens in both legs.
Blood vessel conditions: Blocked arteries can reduce blood flow. This causes both leg pain and numbness.
Hip and pelvic problems: Joint problems in this region may cause pain. Specifically, the sacroiliac joint can cause nerve compression. Pelvic muscle spasms also cause pain. Conditions such as piriformis syndrome cause pain to travel down the leg. These joint problems can also cause leg numbness.
Also, see Your Pain Could be Piriformis Syndrome.
Infection: Certain infections can cause pain. Lyme disease and Spondylodiscitis are some common examples.
Systemic conditions: Metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hypothyroidism affect nerves. Muscle and nerve damage are caused, which contributes to pain.
Cauda equina syndrome: The cauda equina is a bundle of nerves in the lower back. If this becomes compressed, leg pain and severe weakness can occur.
Tumors and cysts: when growths appear in the lower back, they impact nearby nerves. Blood vessels that are compressed by these growths can lead to pain.
Symptoms Associated with Leg Pain
When you have pain, you can also commonly experience these symptoms:
Altered sensation. An affected nerve can cause a nerve-related tingling feeling.
Weakness. When a lumbar nerve is compressed, it’s common to feel weak. Your leg or foot can feel heavy. Foot drop can also occur. This is when it is difficult to lift your foot.
Foot pain. Pain can travel down the nerve to the foot. You may feel burning, tingling, or numbness.
Postural pain. Specific postures and activities may increase the discomfort. Standing for a long time and climbing stairs are also known to exacerbate pain.
Additionally, other symptoms can occur with leg pain. It depends on the cause and the nerves affected. It can also accompany diseases like cancer, diabetes, and nutritional deficiencies.
Therefore, if you are experiencing joint pain, call us at 888-409-8006. We have top specialists for every joint!
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