When to See a Doctor for Leg Pain - Healthgrades

Services

Overview

If you are experiencing leg pain, it is important to understand when it may be necessary to see a doctor. Leg pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and its causes can vary significantly. While some leg pain may resolve on its own with rest and self-care, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Common Causes of Leg Pain

Leg pain can be caused by a wide range of conditions and injuries. Some common causes of leg pain include:

  • Muscle strains and sprains
  • Overuse injuries
  • Tendonitis
  • Shin splints
  • Stress fractures
  • Varicose veins
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Arthritis
  • Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
  • Nerve compression or damage

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most cases of leg pain can be managed with conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), there are certain signs and symptoms that should not be ignored and require prompt medical evaluation. If you experience any of the following, it is advisable to consult with a doctor:

1. Severe Pain

If you are experiencing severe, unrelenting pain in your leg, it could be a sign of a more serious condition. Do not ignore severe pain; seek medical attention as soon as possible.

2. Rapid Swelling

If your leg is rapidly swelling along with the pain, it may indicate an underlying issue such as DVT or an injury that requires medical evaluation. Swelling can be a sign of inflammation or an obstruction in blood flow.

3. Inability to Bear Weight

If you are unable to put weight on your leg or experience severe pain when trying to walk or stand, it is important to see a doctor. This may indicate a fracture, ligament tear, or other serious injury that needs medical attention.

4. Redness and Warmth

Redness and warmth in the affected leg can be signs of infection or inflammation. If you notice these symptoms along with pain, it is recommended to consult with a physician to determine the underlying cause.

5. Numbness or Tingling

If you experience numbness or tingling in your leg, it could be a result of nerve compression or damage. This warrants medical evaluation to identify the cause and prevent further complications.

6. History of Trauma

If you have recently experienced a significant trauma or injury to your leg, it is crucial to see a doctor, even if the pain is mild. Trauma can cause fractures, sprains, or other internal injuries that may require medical intervention.

7. Persistent Symptoms

If your leg pain persists or worsens over time, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Chronic leg pain may be indicative of an underlying condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment.

Expert Care for Leg Pain - Benjamin Shettell, MD

When it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of leg pain, it is vital to consult with an experienced specialist. Benjamin Shettell, MD, is a renowned physician specializing in the care of bones, joints, and muscles. With years of expertise, Dr. Shettell provides comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans for various leg pain conditions.

If you are experiencing leg pain and are uncertain about the severity or underlying cause, schedule an appointment with Dr. Shettell today. Early intervention and proper medical care can help alleviate pain, prevent further complications, and improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

Knowing when to see a doctor for leg pain is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. While some instances can be managed with self-care, certain symptoms require medical attention. Do not hesitate to consult with Benjamin Shettell, MD, for expert care and customized treatment options. Prioritize your health and seek appropriate care to effectively manage and address your leg pain concerns.

Comments

Brittany Theroux

Thanks for the info!

Stephen Klimacek

Understanding when to seek medical attention for leg pain is a crucial aspect of self-care. This article does a great job of outlining that.

Robert Molinari

Leg pain is no joke. It's important to know when to seek professional help. This article provides valuable insights on that topic.

Jeff Whittle

Leg pain can be concerning. It's crucial to know when to seek medical help.

Debby Malen

This article provides valuable information on when to seek medical attention for leg pain. It's always important to seek professional advice if the pain is persistent or severe.

Steve Harper

Leg pain can be so distressing, but understanding when to see a doctor can provide much-needed relief. Thank you for sharing this important information!

Stephen Coan

Knowing when to see a doctor for leg pain can be a game-changer. This article offers important insights for anyone dealing with this issue.

Paul Serff

Leg pain can be quite concerning. Having clear advice on when to seek medical attention is so important. Thanks for the insights!

Sarah Dudas

Recognizing when to see a doctor for leg pain is a critical step in taking care of our health. This article does a great job of highlighting that.

Herbert Vongpusanachai

It's great to have a resource that outlines when to seek medical advice for leg pain. This article offers important guidance for anyone dealing with such issues.

Jennifer Fox

Having clear guidance on when to seek medical advice for leg pain is invaluable. This article provides important information for anyone experiencing such issues.

Beth Talabisco

Leg pain can be so distressing, but understanding when to see a doctor can provide much-needed relief. Thank you for sharing this important information!

Kristina Long

It's great to have a resource that outlines when to seek medical advice for leg pain. This article offers important guidance for anyone dealing with such issues.

Anna Bautro

Knowing when to see a doctor for leg pain can be a game-changer. This article offers important insights for anyone dealing with this issue.

Christian Godske

Leg pain can be quite worrying. Having clear advice on when to see a doctor is so important. Thanks for providing such valuable information!

Sheela Kalawar

Knowing when to see a doctor for leg pain can be a game-changer. This article offers important insights for anyone dealing with this issue.

Beryl Stokes

Recognizing when to see a doctor for leg pain is a critical step in taking care of our health. This article does a great job of emphasizing that.

Chittaranjan Bhat

Recognizing when to see a doctor for leg pain is a critical step in taking care of our health. This article does a great job of emphasizing that.

Geoff Kozma

I've struggled with leg pain in the past, and I appreciate this article's emphasis on when to see a doctor. It's an important aspect of managing such symptoms.

Jim Peters

Leg pain can be quite worrying. Having clear advice on when to see a doctor is so important. Thanks for providing such valuable information!

Ashley Sanders

Leg pain can be quite concerning. Having clear advice on when to seek medical attention is so important. Thanks for the insights!

Shane Wilson

It's great to have a resource that outlines when to seek medical advice for leg pain. This article offers important guidance for anyone dealing with such issues.

Ladonna Settles

Understanding when to seek medical attention for leg pain is a crucial aspect of self-care. This article does a great job of outlining that.

Altruro Riveria

I've experienced leg pain and knowing when to see a doctor can definitely help in avoiding unnecessary suffering. Thanks for the insights!

Ankit Yadav

Understanding when to seek medical attention for leg pain is a crucial aspect of self-care. This article does a great job of outlining that.

Kari Baker

I've found this article to be very helpful. It provides clear guidance on when to seek medical attention for leg pain, which is crucial for proper care.

Vikram Reddy

Leg pain is no joke. It's important to know when to seek professional help. This article provides valuable insights on that topic.

Mitch Davis

Leg pain can be quite worrying. Having clear advice on when to see a doctor is so important. Thanks for providing such valuable information!

Joshua Williamson

Knowing when to see a doctor for leg pain can be a game-changer. This article offers important insights for anyone dealing with this issue.

Dave McKee

Thanks for the helpful article. Leg pain can be distressing, but knowing when to see a doctor can make a big difference in finding relief.

Paul Flower

As someone who has dealt with leg pain, I find this article valuable. Knowing when to see a doctor is key to finding relief.

Janik Zabirov

I've struggled with leg pain in the past, and I appreciate this article's emphasis on when to see a doctor. It's an important aspect of managing such symptoms.

Don Lovasz

Leg pain is no joke. It's important to know when to seek professional help. This article provides valuable insights on that topic.

Celine Guillou

Leg pain can be quite concerning. Having clear advice on when to seek medical attention is so important. Thanks for the insights!

Phyllis Post

This article provides helpful information on when to seek medical attention for leg pain. It's always important to seek professional advice if the pain is persistent or severe. ?

Paul Schubert

This article provides valuable information on when to seek medical attention for leg pain. It's always important to seek professional advice if the pain is persistent or severe.

Mayra Trabulse

Thanks for the helpful article. Leg pain can be distressing, but knowing when to see a doctor can make a big difference in finding relief.

Brady Dick

I've found this article to be very helpful. It provides clear guidance on when to seek medical attention for leg pain, which is crucial for proper care.

Ashkan Azadi

Leg pain can be quite worrying. Having clear advice on when to see a doctor is so important. Thanks for providing such valuable information!

Sambal Digital

Understanding when to seek medical attention for leg pain is a crucial aspect of self-care. This article does a great job of outlining that.

Lori Caden

I've struggled with leg pain in the past, and I appreciate this article's emphasis on when to see a doctor. It's an important aspect of managing such symptoms.

Charles C Cahn MD Internist

Thanks for the helpful article. Leg pain can be distressing, but knowing when to see a doctor can make a big difference in finding relief.

Bryson Alef

Being aware of when to seek medical attention for leg pain is crucial for proper management. This article provides helpful guidance.

Nik

Leg pain can be frustrating, but knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Thanks for providing such helpful guidance in this article!

Emil Kaleshkovski

Recognizing when to see a doctor for leg pain is a critical step in taking care of our health. This article does a great job of emphasizing that.

Joel Feiger

I've struggled with leg pain in the past, and I appreciate this article's emphasis on when to see a doctor. It's an important aspect of managing such symptoms.

Heather Ellis

It's great to have a resource that outlines when to seek medical advice for leg pain. This article offers important guidance for anyone dealing with such issues.

Kathy Braddish

Leg pain can be so debilitating at times. It's helpful to have a resource that outlines when it's necessary to seek professional help.

Mike Holt

Leg pain can be quite worrying. Having guidelines on when to see a doctor can alleviate some of the concern. Thanks for sharing!

Alexander Spotnitz

Having clear guidance on when to seek medical advice for leg pain is invaluable. This article provides important information for anyone experiencing such issues.

Maureen Cupo

This article provides valuable information on when to seek medical attention for leg pain. It's always important to seek professional advice if the pain is persistent or severe.

Laurie Taylor

Leg pain can be frustrating, but knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Thanks for providing such helpful guidance in this article!

19969

It's great to have a resource that outlines when to seek medical advice for leg pain. This article offers important guidance for anyone dealing with such issues.

Courtney Merchant

Thanks for the helpful article. Leg pain can be distressing, but knowing when to see a doctor can make a big difference in getting the right treatment.

Cavanaugh Patrick

I've struggled with leg pain in the past, and I appreciate this article's emphasis on when to see a doctor. It's an important aspect of managing such symptoms.

Matt Paull

Having clear guidance on when to seek medical advice for leg pain is invaluable. This article provides important information for anyone experiencing such issues.

Keith Pagello

I've found this article to be very helpful. It provides clear guidance on when to seek medical attention for leg pain, which is crucial for proper care.

Tore Stole

Leg pain is no joke. It's important to know when to seek professional help. This article provides valuable information on that topic.

Nancy Nye

Knowing when to see a doctor for leg pain can be a game-changer. This article offers important insights for anyone dealing with this issue.

Karen Kuratko

Having clear guidance on when to seek medical advice for leg pain is invaluable. This article provides important information for anyone experiencing such issues.

Lloyd Dennis

Leg pain can be frustrating, but knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Thanks for providing such helpful guidance in this article!

Jeff Craugh

This article provides helpful information on when to seek medical attention for leg pain. It's always important to seek professional advice if the pain is persistent or severe.

Douglas Thralls

Understanding when to seek medical attention for leg pain is a crucial aspect of self-care. This article does a great job of outlining that.

Patrick Eaton

Thanks for the informative article! It's important to know when to seek medical advice for leg pain.

Bob Kelleher

Leg pain can be so distressing, but understanding when to see a doctor can provide much-needed relief. Thank you for sharing this important information!

Angelika Lipkin

It's reassuring to have clear information on when to seek medical advice for leg pain. This article is a great resource for those struggling with such issues.

Kevin Maynard

Leg pain is not something to be ignored. Understanding when to see a doctor is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Icham

Leg pain can be so distressing, but understanding when to see a doctor can provide much-needed relief. Thank you for sharing this important information!

Marguerite Kymn

Leg pain can be quite concerning. Having clear guidance on when to seek medical advice is so important. Thanks for the insights!

Jordan Permain

I've found this article to be very helpful. It provides clear guidance on when to seek medical attention for leg pain, which is crucial for proper care.

Kate Borges

I appreciate the clear guidelines provided in this article. Knowing when to see a doctor for leg pain is crucial for proper care.

Shilpa Bagmane

Knowing when to see a doctor for leg pain can be a game-changer. This article offers important insights for anyone dealing with this issue.

Bob Arnoni

I've found this article to be very helpful. It provides clear guidance on when to seek medical attention for leg pain, which is crucial for proper care.

Matthew Shilts

Leg pain can be quite concerning. Having clear advice on when to seek medical attention is so important. Thanks for the insights!

Reggie Grant

I've found this article to be very helpful. It provides clear guidance on when to seek medical attention for leg pain, which is crucial for proper care.

Dmitry Davydov

Leg pain is no joke. It's important to know when to seek professional help. This article provides valuable insights on that topic.

Nitima Taokaew

Leg pain can be quite worrying. Having clear guidelines on when to see a doctor is so important. Thanks for providing such valuable information!

Timothy O'Reilly

Recognizing when to see a doctor for leg pain is a critical step in taking care of our health. This article does a great job of emphasizing that.

Kathleen Gottschalk

It's a relief to have clear advice on when to see a doctor for leg pain. This article is a great resource for anyone dealing with such issues.

Scott Richards

Leg pain can be quite concerning. Having clear advice on when to seek medical attention is so important. Thanks for the insights!

Dan Woo

It's reassuring to have clear information on when to seek medical advice for leg pain. This article is a great reference for anyone dealing with such issues.

Victor Valentin

This article provides valuable information on when to seek medical attention for leg pain. It's always important to seek professional advice if the pain is persistent or severe.

Darren Fry

Leg pain can be frustrating, but knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Thanks for providing such helpful guidance in this article!

Bill Harris

Thanks for the helpful article. Leg pain can be distressing, but knowing when to see a doctor can make a big difference in finding relief.

Blake Gillum

Having clear guidance on when to seek medical advice for leg pain is invaluable. This article provides important information for anyone experiencing such issues.

Yves Lacombe

Leg pain can be frustrating, but knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Thanks for providing such helpful guidance in this article!

Nancy Nagler

This article has emphasized the importance of listening to our bodies. Knowing when to seek medical attention for leg pain can make a big difference in recovery.

Brian Davisson

Recognizing when to see a doctor for leg pain is a critical step in taking care of our health. This article does a great job of emphasizing that.

Bernard Betts

It's great to have a resource that outlines when to see a doctor for leg pain. This article provides important information for anyone dealing with such issues.

Eric Bone

Leg pain is no joke. It's important to know when to seek professional help. This article provides valuable insights on that topic.

Michelle Spohnholz

Thanks for the helpful article. Leg pain can be distressing, but knowing when to see a doctor can make a big difference in finding relief.

Peggy Purvis

I've struggled with leg pain in the past, and I appreciate this article's emphasis on when to see a doctor. It's an important aspect of managing such symptoms.

Jerry Criddle

Leg pain can be frustrating, but knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Thanks for providing such helpful guidance in this article!

Sherry Oikawa-Kennedy

Leg pain can be so distressing, but understanding when to see a doctor can provide much-needed relief. Thank you for sharing this important information!