9 Common Conditions That Can Cause Leg Pain
Leg pain is a common complaint that can range from a dull ache to sharp, shooting discomfort. It may come and go or persist for long periods. While leg pain is often associated with muscle fatigue or minor injury, it can also signal more serious underlying medical conditions. At the Neurology and Pain Management Clinic (NPMC) in Delhi, Dr. Gautam Arora helps patients uncover the true cause of their leg pain and provides personalized treatments to restore comfort and mobility.
Here are 9 common conditions that could be causing your leg pain:
1. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
PAD occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, particularly the legs. This condition causes cramping, numbness, or fatigue during physical activity, known as claudication. As the disease progresses, even walking short distances can become painful. PAD is a serious condition often linked to heart disease and requires medical attention.
Symptoms: Leg cramps during activity, cold feet, slow-healing sores.
2. Sciatica
Sciatica is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down each leg. This leads to sharp, shooting pain that typically affects one side of the body and may be accompanied by tingling or numbness.
Symptoms: Pain that starts in the lower back and radiates down the leg, worsened by sitting or sneezing.
3. Varicose Veins
Enlarged, twisted veins in the legs can cause aching, throbbing pain, especially after standing or sitting for long periods. Though often seen as a cosmetic issue, varicose veins can be painful and may lead to complications like blood clots.
Symptoms: Visible, bulging veins; swelling; heaviness in the legs.
4. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
DVT is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg. This is a medical emergency because the clot can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Pain from DVT may feel like cramping or soreness in one leg, often with swelling and warmth.
Symptoms: Sudden leg swelling, redness, warmth, and pain (usually in one leg).
5. Muscle Cramps or Spasms
Common and often harmless, muscle cramps occur due to overuse, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances. These cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions that can be intensely painful but usually resolve quickly.
Symptoms: Sudden, tight pain in the calf or thigh, often during rest or exercise.
6. Nerve Compression or Neuropathy
Nerves can become compressed due to spinal problems or conditions like diabetes. Neuropathy often causes burning, tingling, or numbness in the legs, particularly at night. Chronic nerve pain can significantly affect mobility and sleep.
Symptoms: Tingling, numbness, burning pain, or sensitivity in the feet and legs.
7. Osteoarthritis and Joint Issues
Joint degeneration in the knees or hips can cause pain that radiates down the leg. Inflammation, stiffness, and joint instability often accompany this pain, especially in older adults or those with a history of joint injuries.
Symptoms: Joint stiffness, swelling, pain that worsens with movement or weight-bearing.
8. Tendonitis or Bursitis
Overuse or repetitive movement can lead to inflammation of tendons (tendonitis) or fluid-filled sacs near joints (bursitis). This causes localized leg pain, particularly around the knees, hips, or ankles.
Symptoms: Pain near a joint, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness after activity.
9. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
When the spinal canal narrows in the lower back, it can compress nerves and cause leg pain. This condition, common in people over 50, often leads to pain while walking or standing, which improves when sitting or bending forward.
Symptoms: Leg weakness or numbness, cramping during walking, relief when sitting or leaning forward.
When to See a Specialist
Persistent or severe leg pain should not be ignored—especially if it interferes with walking, sleeping, or daily activities. Some conditions, like DVT or severe neuropathy, can lead to long-term damage if left untreated.
At NPMC, Dr. Gautam Arora performs a thorough evaluation, including:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Imaging studies (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound)
- Nerve conduction tests
- Blood tests to assess circulation and inflammation
Personalized Treatment Options at NPMC
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the pain. At NPMC, Dr. Arora offers:
- Medications: Anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain drugs
- Injections: Corticosteroids, nerve blocks, or regenerative therapies for targeted relief
- Physical therapy: Tailored programs to improve strength and flexibility
- Minimally invasive procedures: For nerve decompression or varicose vein treatment
- Lifestyle guidance: Including diet, hydration, and ergonomic modifications
Final Thoughts
Leg pain can stem from a wide variety of conditions—some minor, some serious. The key is early diagnosis and personalized care. If leg pain is affecting your daily life, consult Dr. Gautam Arora at NPMC for a comprehensive evaluation and long-term relief strategy. With expert guidance, it’s possible to move beyond pain and regain a healthy, active lifestyle.
