Leg and Foot Pain Management in Indiana and Ohio

Leg and foot pain can substantially interfere with daily life. That’s why our goal at at all clinics supported by American Pain Consortium is to quickly and accurately diagnose the cause of leg and foot pain, so we can begin treatment as soon as possible.

Sometimes, pain in the feet or legs actually originates in the spine. A pinched nerve can cause pain in the extremities or in any part of the leg. Soothing an irritated nerve may help resolve pain in the foot or leg.

For chronic pain in the feet or legs, medication alone isn’t effective. Patients show the most improvement when they receive multifaceted treatment.

If you’re experiencing leg and foot pain, contact us to schedule an appointment. We’d be happy to help you start your healing journey.

Causes of Leg and Foot Pain

Common underlying causes of leg and foot pain include:

• Acute injuries, including muscle strains, ligament sprains, tendonitis, and meniscus tears
• Degenerative arthritis of the knee or hip
• Excessive scar tissue from a previous injury
• Fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or diabetes
• Neuropathic conditions, including complex regional pain syndrome and diabetic neuropathy
• Nerve root compression in the spine, including sciatica or lumbar radiculopathy

Your leg and foot pain may also be accompanied by other signs and symptoms including numbness and tingling, impaired reflexes, weakness, decreased mobility, and joint stiffness.

Treatment for Leg and Foot Pain

In some cases, leg and foot pain is manageable with non-surgical treatments. Services such as physical therapy, pain-relieving medications, and nerve blocks can all be effective at minimizing and controlling pain and improving overall function.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some lifestyle changes to manage leg and foot pain?

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put extra stress on your joints.
• Wear supportive footwear: Choose shoes that provide adequate arch support and cushioning.
• Regular exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming and cycling can help strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing: Take frequent breaks to stretch and move around.
• Elevate your legs: Elevating your legs can reduce swelling and discomfort.

When should I seek professional help for leg and foot pain?

• If your pain is severe or persistent.
• If your pain interferes with your daily activities.
• If you have any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or fever.
• If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs or feet.

What is the role of over-the-counter medications in leg and foot pain management?

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Topical pain relievers: Creams and gels containing menthol or capsaicin can provide temporary relief.

What is the difference between "referred" pain and local foot pain?

Local pain originates exactly where you feel it, such as a bruised heel or a fractured toe. However, many patients at our clinics suffer from referred pain, where the source is actually in the lower back. Conditions like a herniated disc can compress nerves that send "pain signals" all the way down to your foot. Our diagnostic process includes physical exams and imaging to ensure we are treating the source, not just the symptom.

What is the difference between a "cramp" and chronic leg pain?

A muscle cramp is a sudden, involuntary contraction that usually resolves within minutes through stretching or hydration. Chronic leg pain, however, persists for weeks or months and is often tied to underlying issues like nerve compression or poor circulation.

Is it possible to treat chronic foot pain without surgery?

Yes. Many patients come to American Pain Consortium specifically to avoid the long recovery times of foot or ankle surgery. Through a combination of treatments, we can often manage pain levels so effectively that surgery is no longer necessary for the patient to maintain their desired lifestyle.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about leg and foot pain management in Indiana and Ohio.