Why do my legs ache so much?
Most leg pain results from wear and tear, overuse, or injuries in joints or bones or in muscles, ligaments, tendons or other soft tissues. Some types of leg pain can be traced to problems in your lower spine. Leg pain can also be caused by blood clots, varicose veins or poor circulation.
Why do my legs hurt when I grow?
Despite the name “growing pains,” there is no firm evidence that growing pains are linked to growth spurts. Instead, growing pains may simply be muscle aches due to intense childhood activities that can wear your child’s muscles out. These activities include running, jumping, and climbing.
When should I worry about leg pain?
See your doctor as soon as possible if you have: Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth or tenderness, or you have a fever greater than100 F (37.8 C) A leg that is swollen, pale or unusually cool. Calf pain, particularly after prolonged sitting, such as on a long car trip or plane ride.
At what age do growing pains stop?
Growing pains are common in children, mainly in the legs. They’re harmless, but can be very painful. They usually stop by around age 12.
Can you have growing pains at 17?
Some young people may continue to experience growing pains into their early adolescence or teenage years. Pain may be experienced in the legs – often the calf, front of thigh or behind the knees – and is often worse in the afternoon or evening. Sometimes, the pain can wake a child from their sleep.
What are the signs and symptoms of leg pain?
Leg pain may be acute or chronic. Onset may be sudden or gradual. The pain may be constant or intermittent. Leg pain may also be sharp, dull, achy, stabbing, or tingling.
What can cause pain in the back of the leg?
Bone cancer: Bone cancer of the leg (e.g., osteosarcoma) can be a source of leg pain. Certain other cancers, such as prostate cancer and breast cancer, can metastasize to bone and cause leg pain as well. Osteomyelitis: Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone.
What are the causes of leg pain and numbness?
Poor circulation, blood clots, and varicose veins can also cause leg pain and cramping. Leg pain and numbness can be experienced in many forms-some patients describe the pain as aching, searing, throbbing, or burning, or like standing in a bucket of ice water, especially the pain that results from overuse or injuries.
When should I seek medical attention for leg pain?
While leg pain usually isn’t a medical emergency, you should seek immediate medical attention if any of the following applies to your pain: Common over-the-counter medications to help relieve leg pain include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications ( NSAIDs ), such as aspirin or ibuprofen.