What are the Causes of Throbbing Pain in Legs?

Several factors contribute to leg pain.

Pain in one or both legs can be caused by a variety of reasons. Leg pain can be uncomfortable, prevent standing for periods of time, or cause sleeplessness. The pain can range from being unimportant to life-threatening.

History

Report all symptoms to your health professional.

Your physician will need important information such as when the pain began, the exact location, and frequency. Advise him of any injury, swelling, medical condition, or medications you are taking.

Causes

A previous injury can be a source of discomfort.

Leg pain can be due to trauma or injury, such as a bruise or broken bone. Other factors can include arthritis, poor blood circulation, blood clots, nerve damage from diabetes, or a tumor involving the bone or muscle.

Diagnosis

Ultrasound can diagnose blood clots or poor blood flow.

Your health professional will perform a physical exam. Additional testing may be required, such as blood tests, ultrasound, or x-rays.

Prevention

A healthy diet, not smoking, and exercise keeps arteries unclogged so blood can flow.

Preventing leg pain depends on the cause. Stretching before physical activities avoids injury. Good nutrition can control blood sugar for diabetics and promote good blood flow. Many types of leg pain cannot be prevented.

Treatment

Common pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can be taken for pain.

Treatment is based on the cause. Ibuprofen is taken for arthritis or injury. Neurontin is effective for pain from nerve damage. Deep blood clots may require herapin, a blood thinner.

Long-Term Effects

Leg pain makes daily activity difficult.

Pain can keep you from normal activities, cause stress, sleep disorders, and depression.

References

• Leg Pain
• Severe Throbbing Leg Pain
• Fibromyalgia