Leg & Foot Pain
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.