What Causes Leg Pain?

Vascular Causes of Leg Pain

What are the causes of leg pain, soreness, and stiffness? There are many different potential underlying factors that could be causing the pain you experience. The factors applicable to you will vary. For some, you could need to see an orthopaedic surgeon, sports medicine specialist, or physical therapist. For others, you may need to receive treatment from a vascular expert.

Two examples include:

• Leg swelling – Are you experiencing significant swelling in your feet or legs? Ask your primary care doctor what to do. Your physician may refer you to a vascular specialist who will ask questions about your medical history. Factors such as heart conditions, kidney issues, liver problems, or thyroid problems could contribute. Other underlying factors may include arthritis or side effects from a medication. Obesity can cause swelling to worsen, as can a sedentary lifestyle. Sleep patterns and diet patterns—including a diet that is very high in salt—may also contribute. Your doctor may recommend treatments such as diuretics, decongestive therapy, exercise, physical therapy, and / or wearing compression stockings.
• Leg wounds – Ulcers are open sores or wounds that do not go away and do not heal. In some cases, these wounds are caused by a condition called venous insufficiency, which affects the veins in the leg and causes sluggish blood circulation and congestion. Other causes may include bad circulation, clotting / circulation disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney failure, lymphedema, a history of smoking, or a malignancy. Inflammatory conditions such as lupus, vasculitis, or scleroderma could also be to blame.