With more serious ailments like heart diseases and liver problems in our wake, we often tend to ignore seemingly trivial ones like pain in the joints and legs. While leg pain may not sound as concerning as the ones mentioned above, it should not be neglected as the root cause may be serious.
Persistent leg pain can have causes ranging from minor disorders to serious illnesses. It is important to know the possible reason behind it, its symptoms and treatment methods. Let us now know some of the symptoms of persistent leg pain.
Muscle Sprains
Excessive stress, improper lifting technique, or abrupt leg movements can all result in muscle sprains, which can be uncomfortable. A sprain of a muscle may cause localised pain. It is common for this pain to worsen with any movement of the legs. Swelling may occasionally accompany it. Therefore, if you have a muscle sprain, try to rest your legs as much as possible. You can speed up your recovery by using ice packs during workouts and performing the right stretches.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Pain may arise from decreased blood supply to the legs. Peripheral artery disease-related leg discomfort frequently comes with sprains, severe pain, or exhaustion, particularly after physical activity. You should give your legs some rest. But when it gets worse, even when you’re at rest, the agony gets worse. Your sleep may also be impacted by it. In certain situations, signs including skin discolouration or sluggish wound healing are possible. You should consult a doctor right away for advice on this. To treat the disease, you might be recommended several drugs and lifestyle modifications.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Blood clots in the legs can cause pain, swelling and redness. Leg pain caused by deep vein thrombosis can cause persistent, sprain-like pain and worsening pain in the affected area. This discomfort can cause swelling, bruising and redness in the affected area. The pain may radiate to the calf muscles and thigh area. When you move your legs or stand up, the pain may worsen and swelling and discoloration of the skin may occur. For this, you need to consult a doctor immediately.
Nerve Pressure
Pain, numbness or tingling in the leg may be caused by sciatica or a herniated disc. Physical therapy, medicines or in extreme circumstances, surgery may be necessary for treatment.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect only the knee and hip area and cause chronic pain in the legs. Medications, physical therapy and in severe cases, joint replacement may be needed.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Diabetes-related nerve damage or other nerve-related issues can cause damage to the nerves, which can lead to chronic pain, tingling and numbness in the legs. Peripheral neuropathy-specific treatment can aid in the condition’s improvement.
