Most people experiencing leg pain do not understand that it can signify an underlying vascular disease. Therefore, every time you experience persistent leg pain, you are advised to seek medical help to identify and treat the cause. That is why St. Louis leg pain is managed by a team of specialists experienced in getting into the root course of your leg pain and coming up with a treatment plan focused on alleviating your pain. An early diagnosis and treatment of your leg pain are essential because it helps prevent the development of potential complications of vascular disease. Below is all you are required to know concerning leg pain.
What vascular conditions cause leg pain?
In most cases, vascular conditions usually cause leg pain when blood circulation in veins and arteries is interfered with. Below are examples of vascular conditions that are responsible for leg pain:
l Peripheral artery disease
It is a vascular condition that usually develops due to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis refers to the build-up of cholesterol on artery walls. Without prompt treatment, the fat deposits get larger and harder, thus blocking blood flow to other organs. Therefore, there is a limited supply of oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and tissues, reducing their functions. It causes the hallmark symptom of PAD which is leg pain which will exacerbate when you are walking and go away when you are resting.
l Venous insufficiency and varicose veins
Most people suffer from venous insufficiency when the valves of their leg veins fail to work appropriately. Therefore, blood that is supposed to go up to your leg during motor reflexes flows back down and accumulates in your lower extremities. As blood accumulates in your lower limbs, the swollen veins twist and bulge, forming varicose veins. Varicose veins then cause leg cramping, pain, and aching.
- Deep vein thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis refers to the formation of a blood clot in a deep leg vein leading to venous insufficiency if not treated. It also causes leg pain, redness, swelling, and warmth. It is a condition that requires immediate care because it can be life-threatening after the blood clot breaks free and flows to your lungs.
- Peripheral neuropathy
It is not a vascular condition because it results from damaged nerves that cause leg pain. It is a condition that usually results from injury or diabetes.
What are other symptoms that usually accompany leg pain?
Other leg symptoms are burning, hair loss, arterial ulcer, itching, swelling, skin rashes, venous ulcers, heavy-feeling legs, and discolored skin. Venous ulcers usually develop when the pressure in blocked veins forces fluids through the skin, leading to an open sore.
How is leg pain treated?
Mostly, the treatment option offered for your leg pain depends on the underlying cause of your concern. Therefore, your care provider evaluates your leg and performs some diagnostic imaging tests before creating your customized treatment plan.
Leg pain can be a symptom of various underlying vascular conditions like peripheral artery disease, venous insufficiency, or deep vein thrombosis. Therefore if you are experiencing leg pain and are interested in seeking medical help to determine the underlying cause, call or visit Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy and get started today.
