What are the main causes of lower leg pain. How can you identify different types of leg pain. What treatments are available for leg pain below the knee. When should you seek medical attention for leg pain. How can you prevent lower leg pain and injuries.

Understanding Lower Leg Pain: Types and Symptoms

Lower leg pain can significantly impact your daily life, causing discomfort and limiting mobility. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some common types of lower leg pain and their associated symptoms:

• Muscle cramps: Sudden, intense tightness in the calf muscle
• Shin splints: Pain along the front of the lower leg
• Tendinitis: Inflammation and pain near the Achilles tendon
• Fractures or sprains: Sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight
• Blood clots: Swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the calf
• Varicose veins: Visible twisted veins and dull aching
• Peripheral arterial disease: Cramping pain during exercise

Recognizing these symptoms can help you determine the potential cause of your leg pain and seek appropriate treatment.

Muscle-Related Causes of Lower Leg Pain

Muscle issues are among the most common reasons for lower leg pain. Understanding these conditions can help you manage and prevent them effectively.

Muscle Cramps: The Notorious “Charley Horse”

Have you ever experienced a sudden, intense pain in your calf that feels like your muscle is seizing up? This is likely a muscle cramp, often referred to as a “charley horse.” Muscle cramps can occur during sleep or daily activities and are typically caused by muscle fatigue or dehydration.

To alleviate muscle cramps:

• Gently stretch the affected muscle
• Massage the area to promote blood flow
• Increase your water intake to prevent dehydration
• Ensure proper stretching before exercise

Shin Splints: The Runner’s Nemesis

Shin splints manifest as pain along the front of the lower leg, often affecting runners and athletes who engage in high-impact activities. This condition results from inflammation of the muscles and tissues surrounding the shinbone.

To manage shin splints:

• Rest your legs and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain
• Apply ice to reduce inflammation
• Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (with doctor’s approval)
• Wear supportive shoes and consider orthotic inserts
• Gradually return to activities and incorporate proper stretching

Tendon and Ligament Issues in the Lower Leg

Tendons and ligaments play crucial roles in lower leg function, and when injured, they can cause significant pain and mobility issues.

Achilles Tendinitis: Heel Pain and Beyond

Achilles tendinitis is characterized by pain in the lower calf near the back of the heel. This condition occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, becomes inflamed or irritated.

To treat Achilles tendinitis:

• Apply ice to reduce swelling and pain
• Take anti-inflammatory medications as recommended by your doctor
• Avoid activities that cause pain
• Perform gentle stretching exercises once pain subsides
• Consider physical therapy for severe cases

In cases of severe pain or suspected tendon tear, consult a medical professional immediately. Surgical intervention may be necessary for complete tears.

Bone-Related Lower Leg Pain: Fractures and Sprains

Injuries to the bones and surrounding tissues in the lower leg can result in acute pain and limited mobility. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for optimal recovery.

Identifying and Treating Sprains

Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, often due to sudden twisting or impact. How can you differentiate between a mild and severe sprain? Mild sprains typically cause pain, swelling, and some difficulty bearing weight, while severe sprains may result in intense pain, significant swelling, and inability to use the affected limb.

For mild sprains, follow the RICE protocol:

1. Rest the injured area
2. Ice the affected limb to reduce swelling
3. Compress the injury with a bandage
4. Elevate the leg above heart level

Dealing with Fractures in the Lower Leg

Fractures in the lower leg bones can range from hairline cracks to complete breaks. Symptoms often include severe pain, swelling, deformity, and inability to bear weight. If you suspect a fracture, seek immediate medical attention.

Treatment for fractures may include:

• Immobilization with a cast or brace
• Pain management medications
• Physical therapy during recovery
• In some cases, surgical intervention

Vascular Causes of Lower Leg Pain

Circulatory issues can lead to various types of leg pain, some of which can be serious if left untreated.

Deep Vein Thrombosis: A Silent Threat

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the lower leg or thigh. This condition can be serious if the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

Risk factors for DVT include:

• Prolonged inactivity, such as during long flights or car rides
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Certain medications

If you suspect DVT, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment may include blood-thinning medications, compression stockings, and lifestyle changes to prevent future clots.

Varicose Veins: More Than Just a Cosmetic Concern

Varicose veins appear as twisted, dark blue or purple veins visible beneath the skin’s surface. While often considered a cosmetic issue, they can cause discomfort and aching, especially after prolonged standing.

To alleviate symptoms of varicose veins:

• Wear compression stockings to improve circulation
• Alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day
• Elevate your legs when resting
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly to improve circulation

For severe cases, medical treatments such as sclerotherapy or laser therapy may be recommended.

Peripheral Arterial Disease: A Circulatory Culprit

Lower-extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to the muscles. This condition can cause cramping pain during physical activity, known as intermittent claudication.

How can you recognize PAD symptoms? Look for pain in the legs during walking or exercise that subsides with rest. In severe cases, pain may persist even at rest, and wounds may heal slowly.

To manage and prevent PAD:

• Quit smoking if you’re a smoker
• Adopt a heart-healthy diet
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Engage in regular exercise, starting with short walks
• Control other risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol

Medical treatments for PAD may include medications to control cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as procedures to improve blood flow in severe cases.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Lower Leg Pain

While many causes of lower leg pain can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare professional for leg pain?

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest or home remedies
• Swelling that doesn’t subside or worsens over time
• Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or fever
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Sudden onset of pain with no apparent cause
• Pain accompanied by shortness of breath or chest pain

These symptoms may indicate serious conditions that require prompt medical evaluation and treatment.

Preventing Lower Leg Pain: Lifestyle and Exercise Tips

Taking proactive steps to maintain leg health can help prevent many causes of lower leg pain. How can you reduce your risk of developing leg pain and related conditions?

• Stay hydrated to prevent muscle cramps and improve circulation
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your legs
• Engage in regular exercise, focusing on low-impact activities if you’re prone to injuries
• Wear appropriate footwear for your activities and foot type
• Practice proper warm-up and cool-down routines before and after exercise
• Take breaks and move around during long periods of sitting or standing
• Quit smoking to improve overall vascular health
• Manage underlying health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing lower leg pain and maintain optimal leg health.

The Importance of Proper Footwear

Choosing the right shoes can make a significant difference in preventing lower leg pain. How do you select appropriate footwear for your activities and foot type?

• Ensure proper fit with adequate room in the toe box
• Look for shoes with good arch support and cushioning
• Replace athletic shoes regularly, especially if you’re a runner
• Consider custom orthotics if you have specific foot issues
• Avoid prolonged wear of high heels or completely flat shoes

By paying attention to your footwear choices, you can reduce the risk of developing conditions like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and other lower leg pains.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises for Leg Health

Incorporating specific exercises into your routine can help prevent lower leg pain and improve overall leg strength and flexibility. What are some effective exercises for maintaining leg health?

• Calf raises to strengthen the lower leg muscles
• Ankle rotations to improve flexibility and circulation
• Toe and heel walks to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the feet and lower legs
• Gentle stretches for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon
• Balance exercises to improve overall leg stability

Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of these exercises. If you experience pain during any exercise, stop immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Lower Leg Pain

In addition to conventional treatments, many people find relief from lower leg pain through holistic and complementary approaches. What alternative therapies might help alleviate leg pain?

• Acupuncture: May help reduce pain and improve circulation
• Massage therapy: Can alleviate muscle tension and improve blood flow
• Yoga: Improves flexibility, strength, and overall body awareness
• Tai Chi: Enhances balance and promotes gentle, flowing movements
• Herbal remedies: Some herbs may have anti-inflammatory properties (consult with a healthcare provider before use)

While these approaches can be beneficial, it’s important to use them in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, conventional medical treatments when necessary.

The Role of Nutrition in Leg Health

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy legs and preventing pain. How can your diet impact leg health?

• Consume adequate calcium and vitamin D for bone health
• Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation
• Increase potassium intake to prevent muscle cramps
• Stay hydrated to maintain proper muscle function and circulation
• Maintain a balanced diet to support overall vascular health

By focusing on a nutrient-rich diet, you can support your leg health from the inside out, potentially reducing the risk of pain and related conditions.

Technological Advancements in Diagnosing and Treating Leg Pain

Medical technology continues to evolve, offering new ways to diagnose and treat lower leg pain. What are some cutting-edge approaches in this field?

• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnoses
• Minimally invasive procedures for treating vascular issues
• Wearable devices for monitoring gait and identifying potential problems
• Regenerative medicine approaches, such as stem cell therapy
• Virtual reality-based rehabilitation programs

These advancements offer promise for more effective and personalized treatments for lower leg pain in the future.

The Future of Lower Leg Pain Management

As research continues, what can we expect in the future of lower leg pain management?

• Personalized treatment plans based on genetic and lifestyle factors
• Advanced materials for more comfortable and effective support devices
• Improved understanding of pain mechanisms leading to targeted therapies
• Integration of artificial intelligence in diagnosis and treatment planning
• Development of new medications with fewer side effects

These potential developments highlight the ongoing efforts to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of lower leg pain, offering hope for those who suffer from these conditions.

Why Do My Legs Hurt? 11 Causes of Lower Leg Pain and Sore Calves

The lower parts of your legs take the brunt of your day-to-day life. You shouldn’t have to be in pain, though.

Medical treatments can help if your doctor says you have a condition like leg cramps, blood clots, or issues with the nerves. But you can do things at home that help, too.

Bones, Joints, and Muscles

Muscle cramp. It can strike in your sleep or in the middle of the day. This sudden, tight, intense lower leg pain is sometimes called a “charley horse.” When it takes a grip, it can get worse quickly. It happens when your muscles are tired or dehydrated. Drink more water if you’re prone to leg cramps.

It might help to gently stretch or massage the area where your muscle has tensed up. Stretch your legs properly before you exercise, too.

Shin splints. You can feel this pain right up the front of your calf. The muscles and flesh along the edge of the shin bone become inflamed, so it hurts to walk, run, or jump. Doing activity over and over on hard surfaces can bring this on. You may also be more likely to get shin splints if you have flat feet or your feet turn outward.

Rest your legs to feel better. Ice helps. So can anti-inflammatory meds such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, if your doctor says these are safe for you. You can buy them over the counter.

You might want to see your doctor if the pain stays. Try not to do anything that makes your leg hurt more. Once it feels a little better, do some stretches. The next time out, wear comfortable, supportive shoes. And don’t run on hard surfaces if possible.

Tendinitis. One of the first warning signs you have an inflamed Achilles tendon is pain in your lower calf, near the back of your heel. It’s a common injury that makes the tendon swell, stretch, or tear. You can get it from overworking the calf muscle or climbing the stairs. It might stick around for a long time, too.

Apply ice to get some relief. Or take anti-inflammatories if your doctor says they’re okay for you. Avoid doing anything that causes pain. When it hurts less, stretch and strengthen your leg.

If your pain feels severe, your Achilles tendon may be torn. Another possible sign of a tear is having trouble pointing your toe downward. Your doctor may inject medicine into the inflamed area. You might need surgery to repair the damage.

Broken bones or sprains. Say you twist your ankle and get a mild sprain. Try the RICE treatment: rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

For a more severe sprain or a broken bone (fracture), apply ice and see your doctor right away. You may need a cast or brace. You may also need physical therapy.

It will take time, but gradually you’ll be able to walk comfortably, again. Go slow as you gradually increase your strength and put weight on the injured leg.

Veins and Clots

Blood clot. When your blood thickens in a vein and clumps together, it can turn into a clot. One that develops in a vein deep in the body is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Most deep-vein blood clots happen in the lower leg or thigh. They’re more likely to happen if you’re inactive for long periods, like on a long flight or car ride. You’re also at risk if you’re overweight, or you smoke, or take certain medications.

There’s a chance a clot could break off into your bloodstream and travel to an artery in the lungs. If so, it could block blood flow. This is a serious condition called pulmonary embolism.

If you think you might have a blood clot, go to your doctor or emergency room right away.

Medications, support stockings, and weight loss are types of treatments to help you avoid getting clots.

Varicose veins. You might be familiar with these, because you can see them at the surface of the skin. They appear to be twisted, dark blue or purple veins, and are caused by weak valves and vein walls. They may cause a dull ache, especially after standing.

Try support stockings to relieve the pain. And throughout the day, switch between standing and sitting. See your doctor about other types of treatment if your varicose veins are very painful.

Lower-extremity peripheral arterial disease. This can happen when the arteries in your legs become damaged and hardened. When your arteries narrow or become blocked, your legs miss out on the blood flow they need. That can cause your lower leg to cramp and feel pain when you walk, climb stairs, or do other kinds of exercise, because muscles aren’t getting enough blood.

Resting helps. But if your arteries become severely narrowed or blocked, the pain may persist, even when you rest. Also, wounds may not heal well.

You’re more likely to get this condition if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or you smoke or are obese.

Fix it with a change of lifestyle:

• If you smoke, quit.
• Eat healthier.
• Manage your weight.
• Exercise.

Other treatments include medications to control cholesterol, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Some people need surgery to improve blood flow to the area.

Lower Leg Pain: Nerves

The source of some pain is problems with your nerves.

Narrowed spinal canal (stenosis) and sciatica. A common cause of a narrowed spinal canal is arthritis of the spine. Sometimes a herniated disc puts pressure on nearby nerve roots, which can lead to symptoms of sciatica, such as:

• Burning, cramping leg pain when standing or sitting
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Fatigue
• Weakness

Pain may begin in your back and hip, then later extend down into your leg. Rest is often the cure for other pains of the leg, but not this one. It doesn’t help sciatica.

Treatment may involve resting for a few days, along with taking anti-inflammatories and pain medications. Cold and heat can help with some symptoms. Physical therapy and stretching exercises are often useful. Gradually increase movement over time. Your doctor may also recommend other treatments or surgery if your pain doesn’t get better.

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes. Nerves can be damaged from high blood sugar levels. It can cause pain in both of your legs along with numbness and less sensation in the lower legs.

Talk to your doctor about medications to control the pain and help manage your blood sugar levels.

Shin Splints | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What are shin splints?

Shin splints refer to pain and tenderness along or just behind the large bone in the lower leg (the tibia).

What causes shin splints?

Shin splints most often happen after hard exercise, sports, or repetitive activity. This repetitive action can lead to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and thin layer of tissue covering the shin bones, causing pain.

What are the symptoms of shin splints?

These are the most common symptoms of shin splints:

• Pain felt on the front and outside of the shin. It’s first felt when the heel touches the ground during running. In time, pain becomes constant and the shin is painful to the touch.

• Pain that starts on the inside of the lower leg above the ankle. Pain gets worse when standing on the toes or rolling the ankle inward. As the shin splint progresses, the pain will increase.

The symptoms of shin splints may look like other conditions or medical problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How are shin splints diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider can most often diagnose shin splints by reviewing your medical history and doing a physical exam. X-rays are often needed.

How are shin splints treated?

Your healthcare provider will figure out the best treatment based on:

• How old you are

• Your overall health and medical history

• How sick you are

• How well you can handle specific medicines, procedures, or therapies

• How long the condition is expected to last

• Your opinion or preference

The best course of treatment for shin splints is to stop any activity that’s causing the pain until the injury is healed. Other treatment may include:

• Stretching exercises

• Strengthening exercises

• Cold packs

• Medicine, such as ibuprofen

• Running shoes with a stiff heel and special arch support

Can shin splints be prevented?

You may be able to prevent shin splints by wearing good fitting athletic shoes. Also, gradually increase the intensity, duration, and frequency of a new exercise routine. It may also help to switch between high impact activities and low impact activities such as swimming or cycling.

Leg Injuries | HealthLink BC

Do you have a leg injury?

How old are you?

Less than 5 years

Less than 5 years

5 years or older

5 years or older

Are you male or female?

Why do we ask this question?

The medical assessment of symptoms is based on the body parts you have.

• If you are transgender or non-binary, choose the sex that matches the body parts (such as ovaries, testes, prostate, breasts, penis, or vagina) you now have in the area where you are having symptoms.
• If your symptoms aren’t related to those organs, you can choose the gender you identify with.
• If you have some organs of both sexes, you may need to go through this triage tool twice (once as “male” and once as “female”). This will make sure that the tool asks the right questions for you.

Have you had surgery on the leg in the past month?

If a cast, splint, or brace is causing the problem, follow the instructions you got about how to loosen it.

Yes

Leg surgery in the past month

No

Leg surgery in the past month

Has it been more than a month since the leg injury?

Yes

Leg injury over a month ago

No

Leg injury over a month ago

Have you had a major trauma in the past 2 to 3 hours?

Yes

Major trauma in past 2 to 3 hours

No

Major trauma in past 2 to 3 hours

Are you having trouble moving the leg?

Pain and swelling can limit movement.

Can you move the leg at all?

Have you had trouble moving the leg for more than 2 days?

Yes

Difficulty moving leg for more than 2 days

No

Difficulty moving leg for more than 2 days

Has the pain:

Gotten worse?

Pain is increasing

Stayed about the same (not better or worse)?

Pain is unchanged

Gotten better?

Pain is improving

Do you have any pain in your leg?

How bad is the pain on a scale of 0 to 10, if 0 is no pain and 10 is the worst pain you can imagine?

8 to 10: Severe pain

Severe pain

5 to 7: Moderate pain

Moderate pain

1 to 4: Mild pain

Mild pain

Has the pain:

Gotten worse?

Pain is getting worse

Stayed about the same (not better or worse)?

Pain is unchanged

Gotten better?

Pain is getting better

Has the pain lasted for more than 2 days?

Yes

Pain for more than 2 days

No

Pain for more than 2 days

Is the leg blue, very pale, or cold and different from the other leg?

If the leg is in a cast, splint, or brace, follow the instructions you got about how to loosen it.

Yes

Leg is blue, very pale, or cold and different from other leg

No

Leg is blue, very pale, or cold and different from other leg

Is there any swelling or bruising?

Did you have swelling or bruising within 30 minutes of the injury?

Yes

Swelling or bruising within 30 minutes of injury

No

Swelling or bruising within 30 minutes of injury

Has swelling lasted for more than 2 days?

Yes

Swelling for more than 2 days

No

Swelling for more than 2 days

Do you have numbness, tingling, or weakness in your leg that has lasted more than an hour?

Weakness is being unable to use the leg normally no matter how hard you try. Pain or swelling may make it hard to move, but that is not the same as weakness.

Yes

Numbness, tingling, or weakness for more than 1 hour

No

Numbness, tingling, or weakness for more than 1 hour

Do you suspect that the injury may have been caused by abuse?

This is a standard question that we ask in certain topics. It may not apply to you. But asking it of everyone helps us to get people the help they need.

Yes

Injury may have been caused by abuse

No

Injury may have been caused by abuse

Do you think the problem may be causing a fever?

Some bone and joint problems can cause a fever.

Are there red streaks leading away from the area or pus draining from it?

Do you have diabetes, a weakened immune system, peripheral arterial disease, or any surgical hardware in the area?

“Hardware” includes things like artificial joints, plates or screws, catheters, and medicine pumps.

Yes

Diabetes, immune problems, peripheral arterial disease, or surgical hardware in affected area

No

Diabetes, immune problems, peripheral arterial disease, or surgical hardware in affected area

Have you had symptoms for more than a week?

Yes

Symptoms for more than a week

No

Symptoms for more than a week

Many things can affect how your body responds to a symptom and what kind of care you may need. These include:

• Your age. Babies and older adults tend to get sicker quicker.
• Your overall health. If you have a condition such as diabetes, HIV, cancer, or heart disease, you may need to pay closer attention to certain symptoms and seek care sooner.
• Medicines you take. Certain medicines, such as blood thinners (anticoagulants), medicines that suppress the immune system like steroids or chemotherapy, or natural health products can cause symptoms or make them worse.
• Recent health events, such as surgery or injury. These kinds of events can cause symptoms afterwards or make them more serious.
• Your health habits and lifestyle, such as eating and exercise habits, smoking, alcohol or drug use, sexual history, and travel.

Try Home Treatment

You have answered all the questions. Based on your answers, you may be able to take care of this problem at home.

• Try home treatment to relieve the symptoms.
• Call your doctor if symptoms get worse or you have any concerns (for example, if symptoms are not getting better as you would expect). You may need care sooner.

Major trauma is any event that can cause very serious injury, such as:

• A fall from more than 3.1 m (10 ft)[more than 1.5 m (5 ft) for children under 2 years and adults over 65].
• A car crash in which any vehicle involved was going more than 32 km (20 miles) per hour.
• Any event that causes severe bleeding that you cannot control.
• Any event forceful enough to badly break a large bone (like an arm bone or leg bone).

With severe bleeding, any of these may be true:

• Blood is pumping from the wound.
• The bleeding does not stop or slow down with pressure.
• Blood is quickly soaking through bandage after bandage.

With moderate bleeding, any of these may be true:

• The bleeding slows or stops with pressure but starts again if you remove the pressure.
• The blood may soak through a few bandages, but it is not fast or out of control.

With mild bleeding, any of these may be true:

• The bleeding stops on its own or with pressure.
• The bleeding stops or slows to an ooze or trickle after 15 minutes of pressure. It may ooze or trickle for up to 45 minutes.

Pain in adults and older children

• Severe pain (8 to 10): The pain is so bad that you can’t stand it for more than a few hours, can’t sleep, and can’t do anything else except focus on the pain.
• Moderate pain (5 to 7): The pain is bad enough to disrupt your normal activities and your sleep, but you can tolerate it for hours or days. Moderate can also mean pain that comes and goes even if it’s severe when it’s there.
• Mild pain (1 to 4): You notice the pain, but it is not bad enough to disrupt your sleep or activities.

Symptoms of infection may include:

• Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in or around the area.
• Red streaks leading from the area.
• Pus draining from the area.
• A fever.

Certain health conditions and medicines weaken the immune system’s ability to fight off infection and illness. Some examples in adults are:

• Diseases such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and HIV/AIDS.
• Long-term alcohol and drug problems.
• Steroid medicines, which may be used to treat a variety of conditions.
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer.
• Other medicines used to treat autoimmune disease.
• Medicines taken after organ transplant.
• Not having a spleen.

Pain in children under 3 years

It can be hard to tell how much pain a baby or toddler is in.

• Severe pain (8 to 10): The pain is so bad that the baby cannot sleep, cannot get comfortable, and cries constantly no matter what you do. The baby may kick, make fists, or grimace.
• Moderate pain (5 to 7): The baby is very fussy, clings to you a lot, and may have trouble sleeping but responds when you try to comfort him or her.
• Mild pain (1 to 4): The baby is a little fussy and clings to you a little but responds when you try to comfort him or her.

Pain in children 3 years and older

• Severe pain (8 to 10): The pain is so bad that the child can’t stand it for more than a few hours, can’t sleep, and can’t do anything else except focus on the pain. No one can tolerate severe pain for more than a few hours.
• Moderate pain (5 to 7): The pain is bad enough to disrupt the child’s normal activities and sleep, but the child can tolerate it for hours or days.
• Mild pain (1 to 4): The child notices and may complain of the pain, but it is not bad enough to disrupt his or her sleep or activities.

When an area turns blue, very pale, or cold, it can mean that there has been a sudden change in the blood supply to the area. This can be serious.

There are other reasons for colour and temperature changes. Bruises often look blue. A limb may turn blue or pale if you leave it in one position for too long, but its normal colour returns after you move it. What you are looking for is a change in how the area looks (it turns blue or pale) and feels (it becomes cold to the touch), and this change does not go away.

Shock is a life-threatening condition that may quickly occur after a sudden illness or injury.

Adults and older children often have several symptoms of shock. These include:

• Passing out (losing consciousness).
• Feeling very dizzy or light-headed, like you may pass out.
• Feeling very weak or having trouble standing.
• Not feeling alert or able to think clearly. You may be confused, restless, fearful, or unable to respond to questions.

Shock is a life-threatening condition that may occur quickly after a sudden illness or injury.

Babies and young children often have several symptoms of shock. These include:

• Passing out (losing consciousness).
• Being very sleepy or hard to wake up.
• Not responding when being touched or talked to.
• Breathing much faster than usual.
• Acting confused. The child may not know where he or she is.

Seek Care Now

Based on your answers, you may need care right away. The problem is likely to get worse without medical care.

• Call your doctor now to discuss the symptoms and arrange for care.
• If you cannot reach your doctor or you don’t have one, seek care in the next hour.
• You do not need to call an ambulance unless:
  • You cannot travel safely either by driving yourself or by having someone else drive you.
  • You are in an area where heavy traffic or other problems may slow you down.

Call 911 Now

Based on your answers, you need emergency care.

Call 911 or other emergency services now.

Put direct, steady pressure on the wound until help arrives. Keep the area raised if you can.

Sometimes people don’t want to call 911. They may think that their symptoms aren’t serious or that they can just get someone else to drive them. But based on your answers, the safest and quickest way for you to get the care you need is to call 911 for medical transport to the hospital.

Seek Care Today

Based on your answers, you may need care soon. The problem probably will not get better without medical care.

• Call your doctor today to discuss the symptoms and arrange for care.
• If you cannot reach your doctor or you don’t have one, seek care today.
• If it is evening, watch the symptoms and seek care in the morning.
• If the symptoms get worse, seek care sooner.

Call 911 Now

Based on your answers, you need emergency care.

Call 911 or other emergency services now.

Sometimes people don’t want to call 911. They may think that their symptoms aren’t serious or that they can just get someone else to drive them. But based on your answers, the safest and quickest way for you to get the care you need is to call 911 for medical transport to the hospital.

Make an Appointment

Based on your answers, the problem may not improve without medical care.

• Make an appointment to see your doctor in the next 1 to 2 weeks.
• If appropriate, try home treatment while you are waiting for the appointment.
• If symptoms get worse or you have any concerns, call your doctor. You may need care sooner.

Leg Problems, Non-Injury

Post-Operative Problems

Osgood-Schlatter Disease (for Teens) – Nemours KidsHealth

What Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is swelling and irritation of the growth plate at the top of the shinbone. A growth plate is a layer of cartilage near the end of a bone where most of the bone’s growth happens. It is weaker and more at risk for injury than the rest of the bone.

OSD goes away when a person stops growing and usually doesn’t cause lasting problems.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

OSD typically causes pain and swelling below the kneecap. The pain usually gets worse with running, jumping, going up stairs, and walking up hills. Severe pain may lead to limping. OSD can happen in one or both knees.

What Causes Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease happens during the growth spurt of puberty, when the bones, muscles, and tendons grow at different rates. In OSD, the tendon that connects the shinbone to the kneecap pulls on the growth plate at the top of the shinbone. Activities and sports cause this to happen over and over, which causes injury to the growth plate. This injury leads to the pain of OSD.

Who Gets Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

OSD usually happens in kids and teens who are:

• in their growth spurt (usually around 9–14 years old)
• active in sports or activities that involve a lot of running or jumping

OSD is an overuse injury. This means it happens when someone does the same movements over and over again.

How Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease Diagnosed?

To diagnose Osgood-Schlatter disease, health care providers:

• ask about physical activities
• do an exam

Usually no testing is needed. Sometimes the health care provider orders an X-ray to check for other knee problems.

How Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease Treated?

Someone with Osgood-Schlatter disease needs to limit activities that cause pain that makes it hard to do that activity. For example, if you feel a little pain when running it’s OK to keep running. But if running causes a limp, stop and rest. When the pain is better (usually after a day or two), you can try the activity again.

Sometimes health care providers recommend physical therapy (PT) to keep leg muscles strong and flexible while you get better. It doesn’t happen often, but some teens might need a total break from all sports and physical activities.

To feel more comfortable while healing from OSD:

• Put ice or a cold pack on the knee every 1–2 hours for 15 minutes at a time. Put a thin towel between the ice and your skin to protect it from the cold.
• If your health care provider says it’s OK, you can take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or store brand) or acetaminophen (Tylenol or store brand). Follow the directions that come with the medicine for how much to take and how often.

How Long Does Osgood-Schlatter Disease Last?

Osgood-Schlatter disease usually goes away when the bones stop growing. Typically, this is when a teen is between 14 and 18 years old.

Can Teens With Osgood-Schlatter Disease Still Do Sports?

Yes, teens with OSD can usually do their normal activities, including sports, as long as:

• The pain is not bad enough to interfere with the activity.
• The pain gets better within 1 day with rest.

If you play sports, it can help to:

• Wear shock-absorbing insoles in your sneakers and cleats.
• Put a heating pad or warm washcloth on the knee for 15 minutes before sports.
• Put ice on the knee for 15 minutes after the activity (with a towel between the ice and the skin).
• Wear protective kneepads, especially for wrestling, basketball, and volleyball.
• Stretch before and after sports.

Looking Ahead

Long-term effects of OSD usually aren’t serious. Some teens may have a painless bump below the knee that doesn’t go away. Very rarely, doctors will do surgery to remove a painful bump below the knee.

Some adults who had OSD as kids or teens have some pain with kneeling. If you still have knee pain after your bones stop growing, see your health care provider. The provider can check for other causes of knee pain.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease | Boston Children’s Hospital

What is Osgood-Schlatter disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse condition or injury of the knee that causes a painful bump and swelling on the shinbone below the knee.

Osgood-Schlatter disease typically affects kids during their preadolescent growth spurt: in the tweens (10 to 13) for girls and the early teens (12 to 14) for boys. At this stage, a child’s bones are typically growing faster than the muscles and tendons. As a result, the muscles and tendons have a tendency to become tight.

The condition is caused by the constant pulling of the patellar tendon on the area below the knee where the tendon attaches and is common in tween or teen athletes who play games or sports that involve running, jumping, or going up and down stairs. It is also common among athletes involved in football, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, or ballet.

Factors that increase the likelihood of Osgood-Schlatter disease include:

• tight quadriceps (front thigh) muscles
• tight hamstrings (back thigh) muscles

What are the symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease?

Each adolescent may experience symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease differently. They may include:

• tenderness below the knee
• swelling around the knee
• limping (may worsen following activities)

The symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease may resemble other conditions or medical problems of the knee. Therefore, it’s important to consult your child’s physician for a diagnosis.

How is Osgood-Schlatter disease diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for Osgood-Schlatter disease may include:

• x-ray: a diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film
• bone scan: a nuclear imaging method to evaluate any degenerative and/or arthritic changes in the joints; to detect bone diseases and tumors; to determine the cause of bone pain or inflammation
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body
• blood tests

How is Osgood-Schlatter disease treated?

Specific treatment for Osgood-Schlatter disease will be determined by your child’s physician based on:

• age, overall health, and medical history
• the extent of the condition
• tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the condition
• your and your child’s opinions or preferences

The goal of treatment is to control the knee pain and limit your teen’s activities that could aggravate the condition. Treatment may include:

• R.I.C.E.: rest, ice, compression, and elevation
• medications to ease physical discomfort
• elastic wrap or a neoprene knee sleeve around the knee
• activity restrictions
• physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the thigh and leg muscles

What is the long-term outlook for tweens and teens with Osgood-Schlatter disesase?

Osgood-Schlatter disease often resolves with time. Kids rarely need surgery for this condition.

How we care for Osgood-Schlatter disease

Our team in the Sports Medicine Division includes sports medicine physicians, physical therapists, and athletic trainers who work with young athletes with a focus on recovery and safe return to play. We collaborate regularly with colleagues throughout the hospital and The Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention to provide an accurate diagnosis and prompt, effective treatment for each of our patients.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease | Symptoms and Treatment

What is Osgood-Schlatter disease?

Overuse of the quadriceps muscle can cause repeated strain on the attachment of the patellar ligament to the growing tibia. The tibia hasn’t finished growing and isn’t quite strong enough to withstand the strain on it. This can cause redness and soreness where the ligament attaches. In some cases, a small flake of bone is pulled off the tibia by the pulling ligament. Healing bone (callus) then forms which may cause a hard bony bump to develop.

Who develops Osgood-Schlatter disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease (also sometimes called Osgood-Schlatter syndrome) is one of the common causes of knee pain in active adolescent children who play sports. However, it is uncommon over the age of 16 years. Young teenagers, particularly boys, are the most commonly affected. It is more common in teenagers who play a lot of sport involving kicking, running or jumping. These kinds of sports cause repeated and vigorous use of the muscles on the front of the thigh – the quadriceps.

It can sometimes occur in children who are not sporty.

What causes Osgood-Schlatter disease?

Overuse of the quadriceps muscles is thought to be a common cause. The quadriceps muscle is used to straighten the knee. This muscle pulls on the kneecap (patella), which pulls on the patellar ligament, which is attached to the upper part of the shin bone (tibia). Sometimes Osgood-Schlatter disease develops for no apparent reason.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptom is pain just below your kneecap (patella). The severity of the pain tends to vary. It is usually worse during, and just after, activity. It tends to ease with rest. The pain typically lasts a few months, but sometimes persists until you have finished growing. This means that in some cases it can last up to two years.

A small, tender, bony bump may develop just under your kneecap. This is where your patellar ligament attaches to your shin bone (tibia). The bump is permanent, although in time it becomes painless. Your actual knee joint is not affected, so knee movements are normal. Symptoms usually occur on one side, but in up to one in three cases it affects both knees.

The diagnosis is often obvious from the typical symptoms. X-rays are usually unnecessary. However, Osgood-Schlatter radiology may be required if the diagnosis is unclear.

How to treat Osgood-Schlatter disease

The pain usually goes within a few months without any treatment. It may help to be reassured that the condition is not serious and is likely to go. When the pain flares up, it may be useful to take a painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

Physiotherapy can be of benefit. Osgood-Schlatter exercises are used to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint (principally the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gastrocnemius muscles).

Osgood-Schlatter taping is sometimes helpful. An adhesive tape is placed across the part of the bone that is tender and swollen (the tibial tuberosity) while the patient’s knee is bent. This offloads the pressure when the joint is straightened, relieving some of the pressure and pain.

Osgood-Schlatter surgery is rarely required but if the pain persists, a small operation may be performed. This involves removing unhealed areas of flakes of bone or fixing them to the upper part of the shin bone (tibia).

What about playing sport and other activities?

Sport or physical activity is not likely to cause any permanent damage but may make the pain worse. However, it is often sporty teenagers who develop Osgood-Schlatter disease. If the pain is affecting your ability to do your sport, difficult decisions may have to be made about training schedules and sporting commitments.

An approach similar to the following may be advised:

• You do not usually need to stop sport. However, easing off strenuous or vigorous sport may be sensible until the pain eases to a tolerable level. You should aim to reduce the duration, frequency and also intensity of your exercise, especially if this exercise includes running or jumping. Consider a complete break from sport for a while if pain remains bad.
• An ice pack applied below the kneecap (patella) for about five minutes before and after exercise may prevent some inflammation and pain.
• Consider wearing knee pads during sports such as football and rugby, to protect the tender area.
• Some people find an Osgood-Schlatter brace helpful. It works by reducing pressure on the painful bump at the top of the tibia.
• Consider seeing a physiotherapist for advice on exercises to stretch the thigh muscles.

How long does Osgood-Schlatter last?

As mentioned, the pain typically only lasts a few weeks or months. However, it can sometimes last up to two years. The pain does not usually fully resolve until the end of your growth spurt. Some people find that the pain only returns (recurs) when they kneel. If surgery is required, the result is usually excellent.

Lower Leg Pain | Why Does My Leg Hurt

It’s a training roadblock you’ve heard, or maybe experienced, time and time again—a runner suffering from lower leg pain. Unsurprisingly, the most common injury area for us runners is the lower leg. The shin or lower leg includes everything between the knee and ankle, and is a prime spot for aches and pains due to the high-impact nature of our favorite activity. And, differentiating between specific causes of lower leg pain may be difficult due to overlapping symptoms.

Now that we know what we’re dealing with, here are six of the most common causes of lower leg pain and how to treat and prevent them. The next time you’re wondering, “Why does my leg hurt?” you’ll have some guidance in finding the root cause of the issue.

Shin Splints

This term is used to describe pain along the medial (inner) side of the tibia. Typically, you’ll feel pain along a third or more of the bone. The pain develops while running and resolves afterward—it can improve with continued training. The medial side of the tibia will be tender to touch with no area more tender than another. There may be mild swelling in the lower leg, too.

Microscopic tears of the muscle away from the lining of the bone causes the pain. Predisposing factors include overpronation and running on hard surfaces, and shin splints are more common in novice runners. Treatments include icing after exercise, appropriate footwear or arch supports, and changing your running surface.

Improving the flexibility of your calf muscles and the strength of the muscles along the front and sides of your lower leg are important in treating and preventing this problem as well. To strengthen the muscles of the lower leg, we recommend placing a weighted ring on your foot and pointing your foot up, in, and out. Repeat for 10 reps. Perform three sets.

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Stress Fractures

Also a source of bone pain, a stress fracture is an injury of the bone due to repetitive microtrauma. Bone responds to stress by becoming stronger. The stress causes bone resorption, which is followed by bone building, as long as the stress isn’t overwhelming. With excessive stress, resorption is greater than the building phase, leading to microscopic trauma and microfractures. Repetitive microfractures result in a stress fracture.

The typical presentation is bone pain with impact. Initially, the pain develops during the run but may even resolve during the course of the run. Over time, the pain is present throughout the run and may be present while walking. Mild swelling may be present in the affected area. Continued impact on a stress fracture can result in a complete fracture through the bone.

On clinical examination, there is a specific area of significant bone tenderness. There is pain or even inability to hop on the single leg. X-rays will not reveal abnormalities for at least two weeks and possibly much longer. MRI and three-phase bone scans can detect stress fractures much earlier.

Stress fractures in runners tend to occur in the lower aspect of the fibula and in the upper and lower aspects of the tibia. They can also—though less commonly—occur in the front of the tibia; this stress fracture can be problematic in healing due to the shape of the tibia.

Treatment begins with stopping all high-impact activities, but you may continue low-impact impact cross-training. If there is pain with walking, a boot, cast, or crutches may be needed. In some cases, a long air cast (a stirrup brace that covers the lower leg) may allow a more rapid return to running. Otherwise, most athletes can return to a gradual running program in six to eight weeks.

The reason for developing the stress fracture should be determined. Increasing training too quickly (intensity and/or distance) is the most common cause of this injury. Low bone density or low levels of vitamin D can predispose runners to stress fractures. Training schedules, diet, and for women, menstrual history, should be reviewed to find risk factors for the development of stress fractures and any problems detected should be corrected.

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Compartment Syndrome

During exercise, muscles swell, increasing in volume by up to 20 percent. If the fascia that surrounds one or more of the compartments is too tight to allow the swelling to occur, it acts like a tourniquet, restricting blood flow and putting pressure on the nerve. This causes pain and possibly numbness in the lower leg and foot, and the muscles may not function normally.

A runner with chronic exertional compartment syndrome complains of pain that develops at a certain point during the workout and becomes progressively worse, often to the point of having to slow or end the run. Slapping of the foot as it strikes the ground is another common complaint. The symptoms will resolve shortly after the exercise stops as the swelling resolves. Because of this, the runner’s leg usually seems normal when examined by a medical professional.

Compartment syndrome is diagnosed by measuring the pressure in each of the compartments in the involved legs before and immediately after a run. (The run is usually performed on a treadmill and is continued until significant symptoms develop.) The treatment for compartment syndrome is surgery, after which most athletes are able to return to full activities.

Tendinitis

This is a common problem in the lower leg. Tendons attach the muscle to bone. Inflammation of the tendon causes pain when the muscle is stretched or contracted, and when the tendon swells, both strength and flexibility diminish. The posterior tibialis (the inner aspect of the ankle) and the peroneal (the outer aspect of the ankle) tendons may also be inflamed and tender to touch.

Common causes of Achilles tendinitis include a sudden increase in hill work or speed work. In addition, switching from training shoes to racing shoes without having worn the racing shoes in a long time may aggravate the Achilles tendon because of the racing flat’s lower heel. Overpronation may cause inflammation of the posterior tibialis tendon, while a stiff, underpronated gait may inflame the peroneal tendon.

Treatment for tendinitis includes icing the area for 15 to 20 minutes three to four times a day, adjusting training to decrease the offending stressors, and modifying footwear. The peroneal and posterior tibialis muscles can be strengthened with the exercises described in the section on shin splints (above). Stretching the Achilles tendon once you’ve warmed up with easy jogging is also recommended.

As flexibility improves, you should begin to strengthen your Achilles. One exercise involves hanging your heels off the back of a step, and lowering and raising them repeatedly. Do this slowly at first, then more quickly as your strength improves. You can then progress to single leg raises, starting slowly and gradually increasing speed over training sessions. Heel lifts can be added with shoes when the Achilles tendon is painful to alleviate some of the stress on the tendon.

Prolonged problems with the Achilles tendon may cause degenerative changes, known as tendinosis. The treatment is similar to tendinitis. Stubborn cases may be treated with deep tissue massage and manipulation (such as active release therapy), injections with platelet-rich plasma and similar substances, or surgery as a last resort. Cortisone injections shouldn’t be performed in the Achilles tendon due to the risk of rupture and weakening of the structure during the first 10 to 14 days following the injection.

Inflammation

The large calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) can inflame due to a sudden injury in which the muscle tears. This most commonly occurs in the inner belly of the gastrocnemius at the junction of the muscle and the tendon. When this happens, you might feel a pop, and pushing off will be extremely painful.

There will be mild swelling and possibly some bruising in the leg. Treatment includes using a boot, crutches, or both, and ice should be used often. As the pain subsides, strength and flexibility exercises should be performed. When the runner is able to bear weight on the affected leg without pain, heel lifts should be added to the shoes. Lesser injuries, in which the muscle is inflamed, but not torn, may be treated like tendinitis.

Compression of the Popliteal Artery

Compression of this artery during exercise is an uncommon but potentially severe source of pain, which usually occurs at the level of the knee. With compression of the artery, blood flow to the leg muscles diminishes, causing significant pain until the exercise stops. The blood flow needs to be evaluated during exertion to diagnose this problem, and surgery is the treatment.

Treatment of Lower Leg Pain

With all of these injuries, medications should be used with caution. Short-term use (five to seven days) of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen and naproxen) may help relieve pain, as long as there isn’t a contraindication to usage, such as gastrointestinal, liver, or kidney problems. Even then, these medications should be used with caution.

There is equivocal data in scientific literature on use of NSAIDs with stress fractures—several studies have suggested that these medications may impede the healing of fractures. Acetaminophen may be used for pain control if there are no medical contraindications to its usage. When in doubt, always seek care from a medical professional.

In the case of stress fractures, running should be discontinued until your health care provider gives the green light. Compartment syndrome will not resolve without treatment. When the symptoms are severe enough, options include surgery or eliminating running.

A torn gastrocnemius usually precludes running due to pain. For the other injuries, some degree of running can usually be continued. This involves decreasing the distance and intensity of workouts, with the amount of modification determined by the severity of the symptoms. The goal is to minimize symptoms while running—cross-training may be performed in addition to running if it doesn’t aggravate the problem. Training should be increased gradually, and ice should be used following the workout. Don’t forget to perform strength and flexibility exercises as training increases.

Prevention of Lower Leg Pain

Wear your racing shoes for at least half of your speed workouts and tempo runs. Before a marathon, do at least two long runs in the shoes you’ll wear on race day. Otherwise, you’re likely to get lower leg soreness immediately after or even during your race.

“When you consider that racing flats often have less than one inch of cushioning in the heels, it’s easy to see why suddenly subjecting your legs to such a large difference can strain the calf muscles,” says sports podiatrist Brian Fullem, D.P.M.

If you haven’t been wearing racing flats on a regular basis, introduce them slowly by wearing them on a series of post-run striders a couple of times a week. “Then gradually build up to a full workout, starting with shorter workouts,” Fullem says. “For example, if your track workout ends with 200- or 400-meter repeats, put on the flats for this portion of the workout.”

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90,000 Pain in the leg below the knee in front: causes and treatment

Pain under the knee can be a symptom of a wide variety of diseases and pathological conditions. If the bone on the leg below the knee in front hurts, it means that any part of the lower leg is affected – its muscles, ligaments or tendons, bone tissue, nerve endings or blood vessels. In any case, you will need to consult an experienced specialist, conduct certain diagnostic studies and therapeutic measures.

The leg below the knee hurts, the bone in front: causes

Finding out why the bones of the legs below the knee in front hurt, the doctor may suspect the following reasons:

• Strong physical exertion on the muscles of the lower extremities, which can provoke the appearance of painful convulsive spasms;
• Sprains or tears of the ligaments occurring when performing movements in excess of the amplitude characteristic of the joint;
• any disease of the joint (or part thereof) of an inflammatory or degenerative nature;
• varicose veins, thrombosis;
• Injury or contusion sustained while playing sports or falling;
• inflammation of subcutaneous fat;
• violation of the water-salt balance;
• sciatica;
• pregnancy or overweight causing joint damage;
• fracture of the tibia or fibula.

When the lower leg bone hurts in front of the knee, more research may be needed to make an accurate diagnosis.

An innovative domestic drug for normalizing metabolic processes in bone tissue and eliminating pain syndrome can be purchased in the Parapharm-Shop online store.

What examinations to take in case of pain in the leg bone below the knee in the front

Pain in the leg bone below the knee in the front should be the reason for contacting an orthopedic traumatologist.If necessary, he can refer the patient for consultation to a surgeon, neurologist or other specialist. The survey plan may include:

• a survey to find out under what circumstances pain first appeared, how they are associated with external factors, as well as to study the patient’s complaints, information about him and the development of the disease;
• physical diagnostic methods: examination, feeling of the diseased limb (palpation), tapping it and analyzing the sounds that occur during this (percussion) – using these methods, the doctor assesses the condition of the area under the knee, finds out if there is swelling, redness and other abnormalities ;
• X-ray examination of the lower leg – this method allows you to detect pathologies of the skeletal system: fractures, changes in the structure of the bone, the formation of growths or calcified areas on the surface of the bone, and other changes;
• computed and magnetic resonance imaging – highly informative methods of layer-by-layer scanning of tissues help to accurately determine the location of the pathological focus, its size and structure, are used to assess the state of bone tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and soft tissues;

• ultrasound, Doppler, duplex scanning – allow you to study the state of the vessels, their blockage or expansion, as well as the blood flow rate;
• Electrophysiological studies: electromyography, electroneurography, electroneuromyography – allow assessing the degree of damage to the nerve trunk and muscle fibers;
• laboratory diagnostics: analysis of tissues and biological fluids using specialized equipment allows you to assess the severity of inflammatory processes, to study the state of the body in autoimmune diseases.

What specific studies will be assigned to the patient depends on the results of the doctor’s preliminary conversation with him and the clarity of the clinical picture.

Pain of pain – strife! Probable diagnoses

If the bone under the knee in front hurts, the doctor may try to find out its cause by the nature of the pain.

Aching, pulling pain is most often a symptom of a developing inflammatory process in the joint and erosive-destructive lesions of a rheumatoid nature.

Strong, sharp painful sensations occur with rupture of ligaments, tendons, injury or fracture of knee elements, acute inflammation of the bursa, exacerbation of degenerative lesions of the cartilaginous lining (meniscus), which acts as a shock absorber in the joint and stabilizes the knee joint, as well as deforming osteoarthritis.

Acute pain in the leg bone below the knee in the front may signal damage to the meniscus.

A leg ache often indicates the development of osteoporosis, a chronic progressive bone disease characterized by increased fragility.

A boring nature of pain in bones and muscles is observed in osteomyelitis – an infectious and inflammatory disease that affects the structural elements of bones. Pain is often accompanied by symptoms such as redness of the skin, edema, and an increase in body temperature to 38–39 degrees.

Pulsating pain reports advanced deforming arthrosis or meniscus injury.

Burning pain sensations are typical for pinching of the sciatic nerve (they can reach the toes), as well as for bone tuberculosis.

Shooting pain occurs, as a rule, when the nerve trunk is pinched.

Dull pain can accompany inflammation of the synovial bag of the joint, as well as chronic osteochondritis – a disease in which a small section of cartilage is separated from the adjacent bone and displaced into the cavity of the knee joint.

The bone on the leg below the knee in front hurts: how is it treated

If the cause of the discomfort under the knee is an injury – a bruise or a fracture – the treatment will be aimed at eliminating the inflammatory process, relieving heat, pain, swelling and redness, as well as fusion of fragments bones.In the latter case, the bone fragments are preliminarily carried out, and then they are fixed in the correct position with the help of various kinds of dressings until the formation of a callus.

In case of diseases of an infectious nature (tuberculosis of bones, osteomyelitis and others), the efforts of physicians are directed towards combating the pathogen. In this case, you cannot avoid taking antibiotics that are effective against a specific pathogen.

Treatment of a pinched sciatic nerve and nerve trunk is aimed at relaxing the muscles and relieving pain.Usually, drugs from the group of centrally acting muscle relaxants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, and analgesics are used. Neurotropic vitamins from the B group can also be prescribed, which can effectively affect the processes occurring in the nervous system.

In the case of diagnosing a vascular pathology, the purpose of the applied therapy is to correct disturbances in the work of blood circulation, aimed at improving the vessels. Usually, drugs from the group of venotonics (phlebotonics) are prescribed, which improve the condition of the vascular wall and normalize blood microcirculation in the affected area.

With increased blood viscosity, antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants are additionally prescribed. The former prevent platelets from sticking together and forming blood clots. The latter make the blood more liquid, making it easier for its passage through the vessels. In especially advanced cases, they resort to surgical treatment: the dilated vessel is removed (phlebectomy), a special substance is injected into it that sticks together the vascular walls (sclerosing), or the vessel is sealed with a laser (laser coagulation).

What to do if pain in the leg bone below the knee in front is caused by metabolic disorders?

A common cause of a very unpleasant condition when the bone on the leg below the knee in front hurts is a violation of metabolic processes in the bone tissue.

Normally, two closely interrelated processes are constantly carried out in the bone tissue – the destruction of old bone sections and the construction of new strong bone structures in the vacated places.

With age, destructive processes begin to prevail over creative ones. Scientists attribute this fact to a deficiency of sex hormones, especially testosterone, which stimulates an increase in the number of building cells and prolongs their life. Bones become loose, cavities form in them, and the risk of fractures increases.

The cavities impede the removal of calcium from the dismantled areas of the bone into the blood. The mineral enters the places not intended for this – the cartilaginous tissue of the joints, causing its liming and the subsequent development of inflammatory and degenerative processes. Arthritis or arthrosis of the knee joint develops.

Especially for such cases, a unique drug has been developed in Russia, which has no analogues in the world – Osteomed Forte. Its creator is Professor, Doctor of Medicine, founder of the Volga Osteoporosis Center V.I. Strukov.

The new tool allows you to influence the very cause of fractures, the development of arthritis and arthrosis – metabolic disorders. Osteomed Forte gently stimulates the production of its own sex hormones in the body, activates regenerative processes in bone tissue and normalizes metabolic processes.

Research organized by the Penza Institute for Advanced Medical Studies has shown that the use of a new osteoprotector helps to close bone cavities, accelerate fracture healing, strengthen bone tissue and eliminate pain.

Osteomed Forte can be purchased in the Parapharm-Shop online store.

Literature

1. Borodulin Ya. V., Chekhonatsky VA Differential diagnosis of arthrosis and arthritis of the knee joint with magnetic resonance imaging // Bulletin of medical Internet conferences. – 2017. – T. 7, No. 6. – P. 1035.
2. Deikalo V.P., Boloboshko K. B. The structure of injuries and diseases of the knee joint // Surgery news. – 2007. – T. 15, No. 1. – P. 26–31.
3. Zaitsev A.B. Reconstructive and restorative treatment of patients with lower leg osteomyelitis: author. dis. … doct. honey. Sciences: 14.00.22 / Nizhegorodsk. Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics FA on high-tech medical care. – Bottom. Novgorod, 2009.
4. Khamzaev R. I., Bersnev V. P., Boroda Yu. I., Zharova E. N. Diagnostics of injuries of the sciatic nerve and its branches // Bulletin of Siberian Medicine. – 2008. – No. 5. – P. 201–205.
5. Semenyago SA, Zhdanovich VN Anatomical features of the venous bed of the leg (literature review) // Problems of health and ecology.- 2014. – No. 3. – P. 53–56.
6. Yarmolovich R.A., Salaev A.V. – 2020. – No. 5. – S. 63–66.

Author: Loginova N. A.

Reviewer: doctor-reflexologist A. N. Kurus

Why the legs hurt below the knees | The health of your body

Many people complain of pain below the knees. However, few people seriously think about the causes of this uncomfortable condition.In order not to miss the alarming symptoms that indicate serious health problems, you need to try to figure out what exactly caused the corresponding pain.

Physicians identify the main physiological causes of pain in the legs below the knees

From an anatomical point of view: the legs are parts of the legs from knees to heels. The onset of pain in this area is probably due to lesions of components such as muscles, ligaments, tendons and blood vessels. Considering the physiology of these organs, it can be stated that pain in these places is quite frequent.

First of all, let us list those who are the first “messengers” of disorders in the body:

Feeling of heaviness in the legs, which intensifies at the end of the day, as well as pulling pains – may indicate a possible varicose veins. Venous congestion occurs due to a violation of blood flow, which entails an increase in pressure in the vessels.

Consultation of a phlebologist is required, with a preliminary ultrasound of the veins. Having ascertained the condition of the vessels, the doctor will prescribe medical procedures for you. To relieve pain on your own, you can do morning exercises to rotate your feet (for five minutes), and in the evening to improve blood circulation in your legs, pour cold water over them.Do not ignore the wearing of special compression hosiery, especially since the modern version looks quite aesthetically pleasing.

One of the complications of venous stasis can be thrombophlebitis, that is, a condition when blood clots form in the lumen of the veins. At the same time, in the calf muscles, there is a sensation of acute throbbing pain, burning, redness and swelling. The body temperature may rise, and the veins swell so that touching them is very painful.

To find out the degree of clogging of the veins, and the likelihood of a thrombus rupture, you urgently need to do an angioscanning procedure and a blood test.

When the sciatic nerve becomes inflamed, it is fraught with herniated intervertebral discs and osteochondrosis. Nerve roots are pinched, pain occurs that spreads along the back of the lower leg to the heel. As a result: leg aches, and painful sensations change from numbness to burning or cold snap.

Neurologist’s help is needed, and possibly an MRI procedure.

Osteoporosis is accompanied by severe pain in the calves and cramps in the legs. This condition occurs due to thinning of bone tissue, and calcium deficiency in the body.Women over the age of forty, as well as those who abuse smoking and coffee, are most often at risk.

It is imperative to undergo ultrasound and X-ray examinations.

Problems with the legs also occur in diabetes mellitus, which are expressed in their numbness, tingling and cramps (more often at night). At the same time, dryness and peeling of the skin on the legs appears.

Constant monitoring of blood sugar levels and supervision of an endocrinologist are required.

Flat feet, congenital or acquired, contributes to the gradual weakening of the ligaments and muscles of the feet.At the same time, the legs ache below the knees, hurt, there is a feeling of “lead”, rapid fatigability.

Consultation and assistance of an orthopedist is required, as well as wearing special orthopedic shoes.

Three times more women than men develop arthritis (inflammation of the joints). The pain in this disease is practically constant. And their character changes: sharp – when walking, and “twisting” of the legs during prolonged standing. The joints become swollen and the skin around them turns red.

It is necessary to take urgent measures: an appointment with a rheumatologist, who will prescribe treatment, according to a blood test and an X-ray of the joints.If you miss the time, then due to the deformation of the foot, surgical intervention is possible.

Why there is a feeling of weakness in the legs

Sometimes it happens that there are no visible disorders in the human body, and the legs below the knees ache and weaken. A specialist will help to understand this, but first of all, you need to contact not an orthopedist, but a therapist. It is he who will immediately prescribe the primary diagnostic procedures (bone x-ray, urinalysis, complete blood count, ECG), which will prompt the cause of the ailment.

Weakness in the legs can be a precursor to very serious illnesses such as stroke and heart attack. This is why it is important not to ignore the symptoms that appear. A stroke develops when the vessels are blocked by atherosclerotic plaques. In this case, weakness in the legs can continue for an hour, repeating at regular intervals. The stroke itself can manifest itself later, posing a threat to life.

Do not forget to put your finger up so that we know what you are interested in 🙂

Many people suffer a heart attack on their feet, as there are no clear symptoms of its onset.Usually not severe pain in the heart, but swelling of the legs and their weakness – speak of a possible pre-infarction state. If dizziness, numbness of the limbs and nausea begins, then an ambulance should be called urgently, since in this case: every minute counts.

Read also: Scientists have found a new method for determining stroke

It should be remembered that weakness in the legs is not always associated with specific diseases. At a younger age, this may be the result of physical stress that passes.And in old age, this condition is caused by the aging of the body, a decrease in metabolism and hormonal changes.

HKF Zentrum | Knee Surgery | Reconstruction

Painful O-leg and X-leg: Operational correction of the leg axis using the angle-resistant plate We distinguish between congenital and acquired misalignment of the leg axis. For example, a highly extensible knee joint is a congenital deformity. But also an excessive O-leg (Genu varum) or X-leg (Genu valgum) is often inherited on both legs.Acquired misalignments of the leg axes can be caused by accidents. In addition, the cause of the displacement of the axis of the leg can be in the hip or foot area. Inflammation, bone disorders, and systemic diseases are rare causes.
1a) X-leg (Genu valgum)
1b) O-leg (Genu varum) Symptoms
Deformations of the leg axis have an adverse effect on the pressure distribution in the knee joint. The result is one-sided loading and uneven wear on the inside or outside of the joint.As a result, overuse symptoms can occur between the ages of 30 and 40, resulting in stress and pain.
2) X-ray: constant space in the joints due to wear of the meniscus or cartilage, a noticeable difference from the usually wide outer surface. Diagnosis
On clinical examination, the leg axis is first assessed by a standing examination. However, an accurate measurement of the angle between the thigh and the lower leg is possible only with the help of X-ray and CT (Computed Tomography).
3) CT scan Conservative therapy for leg axis deformities
The goal of treating leg axis displacements should be to relieve pain, improve quality of life and maximize mobility.It is important to convey the influence of conservative and surgical therapy on the progression of osteoarthritis. Targeted physical therapy, pain relievers, and shoe straightening also provide relief. The use of hyaluronic acid preparations has also proven itself here. However, especially in the case of severe leg deviations and in younger patients, surgical correction of the leg should be considered no later than the onset of symptoms. It is important to perform foreskin corrections at a time when meniscus and cartilage damage are minor or absent. Surgical treatment of leg axis deformities
For serious complaints in daily life, sports and work, surgical treatment is usually inevitable. It should be clear to the patient that the correction cannot cure osteoarthritis. However, it ideally reduces symptoms for as long as possible. Another important goal of the surgery is to delay artificial joint replacement by implanting a knee prosthesis as long as possible. Operational O-Leg Offset Correction
Correction of O-leg misalignment can mainly be achieved with two surgical procedures.The most commonly used, wedge-shaped valgus correction. It is performed with one-sided opening of the tibial head and fixation using an angled stable plate directly under the knee joint. Depending on the degree of correction, the resulting space of the gap should be filled with bone, which can be taken from the iliac crest. Less commonly today, the so-called “closed wedge osteotomy” is performed. The bone wedge is removed from the outer tibia below the knee joint.In this case, the bone wedge is removed from the outer tibia below the knee joint, after closing this wedge-shaped gap and fixing it with a stable angle osteosynthesis plate.
4a) Surgical Image
4b) After 6 months Operative correction of X-leg displacement
Excessive X-leg malformation is less common and is treated surgically according to the same principle. However, most of the bone deformity is not located on the tibia, but in the knee area near the thigh.The operation is much more difficult and the healing process is slower. X-ray examination during surgery
Individual surgical steps are precisely monitored and documented using intraoperative X-rays. Postoperative care after correction of the leg axis
Today we only use the modern and especially the angular plate system (Tomofix), which was developed just a few years ago. With this system, the patient can in most cases start working again at full load after 2–3 weeks and abandon the previously used walking aids within 6 weeks.The hospital stay is 4 to 5 days.

Questions and Answers – Orthocenter

Edward 03.12.2014 10:10
Hello!
In the summer, there was a rupture of all the ligaments in the knee joint of the right leg. Later, an operation was performed to restore them. But at the last examination, the doctor said that the ligaments were stretched. Will the ligaments recover on their own or will it require additional medical intervention?
Thanks in advance for your reply.

Answer:
Edward, hello.
If the ligaments in the knee joint are weakened, they themselves will not heal. It is necessary to see to what extent the instability of the knee joint is expressed, and with what it is connected, whether it prevents you from living a full life. There are two treatment options: surgical treatment (plastic restoration of unstable ligaments) and conservative treatment, in which you can try to strengthen the muscles of the thigh and lower leg (pump the knee, as athletes say), strong muscles will strengthen the knee joint, and you will also need to use a special knee brace when loads.But it is possible to more accurately determine the tactics of your treatment only during examination. To agree on the time of the consultation, call me on + 79119809604. Call from 08-00 to 09-30 and after 16-00 (from 09-30 to 16-00 I am usually in the operating room).
Best regards.
Egorov Konstantin Sergeevich.
Orthopedic traumatologist.

Tatiana 02.12.2014 11:18
Hello.
I am 38 years old. Since childhood (they say after rickets) I have a curvature of the legs. Before that, I was worried about it only from the point of view of feminine beauty, but now there were pains in the knees when walking.I was consulted by a traumatologist. He said that arthrosis of the knee joints began, prescribed chondroxide ointment, Nise tablets and said that it might be necessary to inject a special gel into the joint. I found out that you are treating curvature of the legs. Tell me if this treatment will help me and what awaits me in the future. Thank you in advance.

Answer:
Dear Tatyana. Arthrosis of the knee joints at such a young age does not develop by itself. The cause of your arthrosis is most likely a violation of the axis of the lower extremities (curvature of the legs).If this is the case, then the good medication prescribed by your traumatologist will relieve the pain for a while, but will not eliminate the cause of the development of pain in the joints. There are methods for treating arthrosis in young patients against the background of deformity of the lower extremities, which are aimed specifically at eliminating the cause of pain. But, unfortunately, this cannot be solved in absentia. For a more detailed consultation and development of treatment tactics, you need your knee X-rays and an in-person consultation. Call me on the phone +79119809604 to agree on the time of the consultation.Call from 08-00 to 09-30 and after 16-00 (from 09-30 to 16-00 I am usually in the operating room).
Best regards.
Egorov Konstantin Sergeevich.
Orthopedic traumatologist.

Julia 12/11/2014 11:00
Hello!
My grandfather, 87 years old. Fell out of bed two days ago. I couldn’t get up on my own. They called an ambulance. The grandfather was taken to the hospital, an X-ray was taken at the emergency department and they said that the neck of the hip on the right was broken. We were advised not to hospitalize him, since he will not be operated on because of his age, and it is better to take care of him at home.Now grandfather is in bed and cannot even sit down due to pain in his hip. Please tell me what is better to do in such a situation.
Thank you in advance!

Answer:
Good evening! Unfortunately, displaced femoral neck fractures over the age of 80 years do not heal with conservative treatment (without surgery). The only way to put the patient on his feet (if he walked before the fracture) is endoprosthetics (implantation of an artificial joint). However, it is always difficult to make a decision about an operation in an 87-year-old patient.To do this, it is necessary to find out some details: the nature of the fracture, concomitant diseases, mental status, physical condition, etc. For more detailed advice call me on +79119809604. Call from 08-00 to 09-30 and after 16-00 (from 09-30 to 16-00 I am usually in the operating room).
Best regards,
Egorov Konstantin Sergeevich
Orthopedic traumatologist

Marina 10.11.2014 11:05
Good evening!
My mom has had a sore knee for 3-4 years.We went to different orthopedic doctors, but there is no improvement. the last MRI done on 09/13/2014. shows the conclusion: signs of chronic productively proliferative synovitis with the formation of pannus tissue (compared with MR data from 2012, the dynamics is negative). Secondary osteoarthritis of the right knee joint. MR – signs of tendinosis of the quadriceps tendon. The knee looks swollen and sometimes fever, the higher the temperature in the knee, the higher the body temperature. When walking, the knee hurts, he cannot walk for a long time, he is operated on a cane.Feeling of pain in different points of the knee, sometimes from the side or from below. At the slightest impact on the leg, a strong sharp pain is felt.
In September 2013. and in March 2014. pierced the drug “Fermatron” 3 injections with an interval of 1 week, and took the pills “arthrodarin” and “arcoxia”. The improvement was temporary. the inflammatory process has not yet passed. At the moment, “xefacam + water for injection + novacaine” was pierced intra-articularly 3 times with an interval of 3 days. and drank Texamen tablets for 8 days, could no longer, I felt bad.Have passed COE-27 blood tests; LEUKOCYTES – 7.80; Lymphocytes – 6.05; Hemoglobin -101; How are we to be? C can you help us? Thanks in advance for your reply!

Answer:
Dear Marina, good evening.
A similar course of chronic synovitis often requires surgical treatment. To determine the amount of treatment required, please send me by mail [email protected] radiographs of the knee joint, a full description of all available MRI, the result of a blood test for C-reactive protein and rheumatoid factor.Please clarify if there are pains in joints other than the knee and if your mother is being monitored by a rheumatologist.
Best regards,
Maxim Vadimovich Isaev
Traumatologist – orthopedist.

Maxim Eduardovich 09.11.2014 23:10
Good afternoon. My father is 65 years old. 4 years ago he suffered a comminuted fracture of the left ankle joint. He was treated in a plaster cast. Now he is constantly worried about pain in the joint, he can hardly walk. He is offered an operation to close the joint.Are there any alternative treatment options?

Answer:
Good afternoon. Sometimes, after intra-articular fractures, arthrosis of the ankle joint develops, accompanied by pain and swelling. With this pathology, in the absence of the effect of conservative treatment, an operation is required. There are two options for surgical treatment: arthrodesis (joint closure) and endorothesia (implantation of an artificial joint. Each of the options has advantages and disadvantages.The choice of tactics is carried out individually for each patient. In your case, to resolve the issue of the expediency of the operation and its type, it is necessary to provide X-rays of the ankle joint (you can send it to [email protected]), and it is better to sign up for a detailed consultation at our Orthocenter.
Yours faithfully,
Egorov Konstantin Sergeevich
Traumatologist-orthopedist.

Natalya 23.10.2014 08:43
Hello!
Mom fell and suffered a broken arm as a result of the fall.They took me to the traumatology department by ambulance and took an X-ray and applied a plaster cast. The diagnosis indicated: a fracture of the base of the 5th bone bone without displacement. The next day I received the result of an X-ray with a diagnosis: a fracture of the 5th metacarpal bone with displacement. For not having the opportunity to get to a traumatologist, we were assigned to a surgeon. The surgeon’s comment is not significantly offset. Walk around with plaster for 2-3 weeks. My question is: how long does it take to walk with a plaster cast with such fractures and was it necessary to correct the fracture for better healing? Thanks in advance for your reply.

Answer ::
Dear Natalia, good afternoon. Usually, fractures of the base of the 5th metatarsal bone heal well in 4 weeks. Minor displacement of reduction is not required. In order to correctly answer your question, you need to see the pictures. You can send radiographs by e-mail [email protected].
Best regards,
Maxim Vadimovich Isaev
Traumatologist – orthopedist.

90,000 Knee arthroplasty. Patient memo

Various diseases and consequences of injuries lead to pain and limitation of movements in the knee joint.Over time, you begin to realize that your options are limited. You are being treated by various specialists for a long time. Despite this, there comes a point when medication and physical therapy stop helping. There are indications for surgical treatment. In many cases, an orthopedic surgeon (a doctor who specializes in joint and bone diseases) can replace your painful joint. For most people, knee replacement means returning to a fulfilling, pain-free life.Having decided on this, you have taken the first step towards achieving your goal. Anxiety about whether joint pain will go away, whether you will be able to walk without crutches is natural. This booklet will help you understand what knee replacement is and how it will affect your life. He will also help you find answers to your questions.

How the knee joint works and works

The knee joint is one of the largest joints in the human body. It is formed by two long tubular bones: the femur (above) and the tibia (below).In addition, there is a small round bone in the front of the knee called the patella or patella. Two ball-shaped eminences are located at the bottom of the femur and are called the femoral condyles. They are covered with articular cartilage and form the articular surface of the femur. The femoral condyles are in contact with the flat surface of the tibia called the tibial plateau.

Articular cartilage covers the articular ends of the bones in any joint.The thickness of the articular cartilage in the knee joint is about 5-6 mm. This is a white fabric with a shiny, very smooth surface, and has a densely elastic consistency. The function of the articular cartilage is to reduce frictional forces during movement in the joint, as well as to absorb shock loads. Thus, articular cartilage is needed where there is movement of two bony surfaces relative to each other. In the knee joint, the articular cartilage covers the articular ends of the femur and tibia, as well as the posterior surface of the patella.

Ligaments are dense formations of connective tissue that are located on the sides of the knee joint and are necessary for fixing the ends of the bones to each other. They additionally strengthen the joint capsule by limiting lateral movements in the knee joint.

Inside the knee joint, between the articular surfaces of the femur and tibia, the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments are stretched. These ligaments restrict unnecessary movement of the articular surfaces of the bones and keep the tibia from sliding forward or backward relative to the femur.All ligaments of the knee joint are very important structures that provide stability to the knee joint.

Two connective tissue formations of the knee joint, similar to the ligaments, are called menisci. They are located between the femur and tibia. Menisci are sometimes referred to as the “cartilage” of the knee, but the structure of the meniscus is different from the structure of the articular cartilage that covers the articular surfaces of the bones. Menisci are elastic pads that are semi-lunar in shape and fill the space between the femoral condyles and the tibial plateau.They help to rationally redistribute body weight from the femur to the tibia and absorb excessive loads. Damage or absence of menisci leads to an incorrect distribution of loads in the knee joint, which contributes to the development of degenerative changes in the articular cartilage.

In addition to the function of protecting the articular cartilage, the menisci, together with the ligaments, help to increase the stability of the knee joint. The stability of the joint is ensured by its “wedging” of the wedge-shaped menisci.The thickness of the menisci is greater at the periphery than in the central part. This geometry leads to the formation of a shallow depression on the tibial plateau. Such a surface gives greater stability to the joint, and also more effectively redistributes static and dynamic loads to the articular surface of the tibia.

Sick and damaged knee joint

Unfortunately, injuries of the knee joint, which are accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the ligaments, are quite common.In addition, the knee joint is the supporting joint of the human body, which carries a significant load when walking, running, and standing. Therefore, the risk of premature articular wear of the articular cartilage in the knee joint is quite high. When one or more parts of the knee joint is damaged, movement becomes difficult. In the diseased joint, the cartilaginous surfaces of the bones are significantly changed. In some places it disappears, in others it has layers. At the same time, the evenness, smoothness of the cartilaginous articular surface is lost.Balancing the load on the ligaments, the muscles are disturbed. They also undergo changes, not to mention the influence of the disease on them. Gradually, all joint tissues are involved in the process. All this leads to painful and limited movements in the joint, its deformation. Any of the following problems can damage the joint:

– Osteoarthritis – Over time, normal wear and tear can complement. The cartilage may begin to break or wear off. When this happens, the bones are forced to rub against each other, becoming uneven and ulcerated.

– Chronic disease (Inflammatory arthritis) – Chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can cause swelling and irritation (inflammation) in the articular cartilage. If the disease progresses, the cartilage may become thinner and the joint may ossify.

– Injuries and fractures – An unsuccessful fall or bruise can break one or more bones involved in building the knee joint. If the broken bone is not healed, or healed in the wrong position, then the joint will slowly wear out

Your medical examination

Your surgeon will comprehensively examine your knee joint.The joint will be tested for strength and range of motion. The surgeon can also observe your gait. At the same time, he will look for other problems as you walk. Your doctor may try to reduce your hip pain with medication or physical therapy. You can learn to walk with a cane. But if all this does not work properly, then total knee arthroplasty will be the right solution for you. To do this, you will undergo a complete medical examination and X-ray examination.After forming a treatment plan, the surgeon will decide whether an operation is necessary.

The operation can help

You don’t need to endure joint pain for the rest of your life. During the operation, the diseased joint is replaced with an artificial one (endoprosthesis). Surgery may not make you young again, but it can bring you significant benefits. The main task of joint replacement surgery is to improve its function (reduce pain, increase range of motion, correct limb length, improve gait) and increase the comfort of life.To date, a large number of knee endoprostheses have been created in the world. We have a wide range of the best domestic and foreign endoprostheses. The selection of the required type of endoprosthesis depends on the patient’s age, the characteristics of the existing pathology, the state of the bone tissue and other factors. The selection is carried out by the surgeon when planning the future surgical intervention.

Benefits of knee arthroplasty

After knee replacement surgery, you will be able to move more actively and easier.Most patients receive all the benefits listed below:

– Significant reduction in knee pain, even the pain from surgery should go away within a few weeks.

– Your leg will become stronger. Since you will not feel pain, the legs will work harder and therefore the muscles will be strengthened.

– Your quality of life will improve as you can be more active.

– You will be able to move more easily for many years. Most total knee replacement surgeries have a long-term result.

X-ray examination

An X-ray is done to get a picture of your knee joint. X-rays will show changes in the size and shape of the joint. A bone spur, cyst, or depressions in the bone may also be visible on x-rays. Such changes are often caused by deterioration of the cartilage tissue. X-rays will also help your doctor plan your joint replacement. With the help of radiographs, the doctor can decide which prosthesis is needed and how best to fix it in the bone.

Your treatment plan

The surgeon will usually plan your treatment based on test results and radiographs.

1. If you are very young and the disease has not gone very far, the surgeon may suggest you another operation or postpone it. In this case, therapeutic treatment and lifestyle changes will help to cope with the symptoms of the disease until it is time for arthroplasty.

2. Depending on your age and joint damage, surgery may be the best way out.Complete replacement of the knee joint gives a long-term, long-term result (usually for high-quality joints it is 15-20 years), and in case of wear, the artificial joint can be replaced with a new one.

Preparation for operation

Before the operation, in order to facilitate the healing process, you can take the following steps:

– Make simple changes to your home:
– Reduce the number of items that are difficult to reach and minimize the need to climb stairs.-
– Stock up on frozen and canned food. Place everything you need between your shoulder and waist.
– Tidy up and remove the floor carpets.
– Remove and roll up the electrical wires.
– Railings and handrails are especially useful when using a bath or shower.
– Prepare gripping devices for putting on socks or shoes (long hook or long tongs).
– Ask someone to help you for the first 2 weeks after surgery.
– Talk to your surgeon regarding the need to donate blood for possible use during surgery.
– Ladies also need to visit your general practitioner and dentist. Your therapist will decide whether or not you are allowed to have surgery. You will need to pass the necessary tests. You may also need an electrocardiogram to determine the type of anesthesia you need. Dental problems must be corrected before surgery. Complete all current dental treatments as well. If this is not done, microorganisms from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and infect the new joint.This can slow down recovery or, in the case of an infection in the new joint, even require removal of the endoprosthesis.
– If you smoke, try to quit smoking or reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke – this will reduce the risk of surgery and speed up your recovery.

Donating blood

Blood loss may need to be replaced during surgery. Stocking your own blood before surgery is the best solution. This greatly reduces the risk of blood transfusion.If necessary, you will be given blood from special supplies in the clinic, and it also undergoes comprehensive control. If you decide to donate your own blood, you may need to do this several times. A weekly break between donations is usually required.

Risks and complications

Like any surgery, knee replacement surgery carries the risk of possible complications. This implies the following:

– Allergic reactions.
– Thrombosis.
– Infection.
– Joint instability
– Damage to nearby vessels, bones or nerves.
– Pain syndrome.

According to the world literature (our results practically do not differ from them), complications are observed in about 5.5-6% of cases.

Allergic reactions are associated with individual intolerance to drugs, which you must tell your doctor in advance.

Blood condition, concomitant diseases contribute to increased thrombus formation.

Infectious complications are promoted by foci of infection in the body (carious teeth, furunculosis, etc.). Treatment of suppuration requires significant effort by patients and nurses and is not always successful. You yourself can give the doctor (and, therefore, yourself) some help to prevent inflammation. That is why, before admission to the clinic, all foci of infection must be sanitized.

The instability of the endoprosthesis is caused by the weakening of the attachment of the endoprosthesis to the bones. This is due to bone weakness, prolonged excessive loads, individual intolerance of the endoprosthesis by the body, the negative influence of wear products of the components of the endoprosthesis, etc.Therefore, the patient should remember the need to comply with the orthopedic regime and constant supervision of an orthopedic surgeon. You should not keep silent about your complaints, thinking that “it will pass by itself.” So you can skip a serious complication, which will be difficult to deal with later.

Vascular neurological disorders appear with edema and impaired active movements. They sometimes occur as a biological response of the body to surgery.

Pain in the postoperative period is possible in the presence of concomitant lumbar osteochondrosis, patellofemoral arthrosis (between the patella and the femur), osteoporosis.

Your knee replacement surgery .

In most cases, all preoperative examinations are done weeks or days before surgery. Follow all of your surgeon’s instructions when preparing for surgery. You can also talk to the anesthesiologist (the doctor who gives the anesthesia) if you have not already done so. It will be okay to have some excitement. But be absolutely sure that this is a common operation that leads to good results.

They will explain to you when to stop eating and drinking before surgery. Inform your surgeon about all medicines you are taking, including those you bought without a prescription. It is very important. Some medicines should not be taken with anesthesia. Others, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood thinning medications, lead to bleeding. To avoid problems, you may be advised not to take certain medications before surgery.

After reaching the required depth of anesthesia, the surgeons proceed to the operation.

An incision is made along the anterior-medial surface of the operated joint. During knee arthroplasty, the altered surfaces of the articular ends of the bones that form the joint are cut economically. Instead of them, articular surfaces made of artificial material are installed, repeating the shape of healthy ones (Figure 1). Typically, extra strong alloys are used for this, for example, cobalt-chromium-molybdenum or the like. By the type of fixation, all endoprostheses are cement – fixed to the bone with bone cement.An insert made of a special polymer is installed between the metal surfaces, which performs a shock-absorbing function and improves the sliding of metal surfaces.

The implantable artificial surfaces are ideally smooth and durable, they provide good sliding of the femur and tibia, thereby making it possible to flex and extend the knee joint painlessly and in sufficient volume. The next important stage of the operation is to adjust the tension of the ligaments, which affects not only the range of motion in the joint, but also the duration of its work.

After installing a new joint, the incision is closed with special staples or sutured with threads.

After the operation, you will be taken to the intensive care unit. The staff will closely monitor your condition and give you pain relievers. A catheter (small tube) in the bladder and drainage in the thigh may be retained. A removable immobilizing bandage is used to maintain the stability of the joint.

In the hospital room

The next day you will be taken to the ward, where you will later be, and where relatives or friends can visit you.Some pain may remain. To make the pain more bearable, answer honestly to questions about the current condition and then the assistance provided will be adequate. During your hospital stay, you will be shown how to protect your new joint in your daily life. A physiotherapy specialist will begin to develop movements in the operated knee joint with you. In addition, you must independently do gymnastics for the knee joint every hour for 10-15 minutes.

After the operation, the patient is under the supervision of the medical staff.The following equipment will contribute to your comfort and safety:

– Immobilizing dressing, usually removable. The joint is fixed to her for 3-5 days during the normal course of the postoperative period.

– Balkan frame (trapezoid) can be fixed above the bed. Use it to raise your body when changing position;

– Special bandages may be helpful to reduce the risk of bleeding or blood clots. Medication is sometimes given to prevent blood clots.

In the first days after the operation, you may feel pain despite the pain medication. This is fine. But if the pain persists, be sure to tell your sister. Analgesics can be injected into the muscle or intravenously directly into the blood stream.

During the course on protecting the operated joint, you will be told how to walk, sit and dress for the first time after the operation. To make it easier to move during training, ask for pain relievers.

Walk again

You will be able to stand and walk a few days after the operation.A nurse or physiotherapist will help you and tell you how much stress the operated joint can be. With practice, you will be able to move on your own with crutches. In case of satisfactory healing of the surgical wound, you will stay in the hospital until the stitches are removed (about 10 days after the operation). By the time of discharge, as a rule, all patients walk with crutches.

Sit and dress

To ensure that the operated joint is not injured, you will be shown how to perform normal movements.Use the following tips:

– To sit down, lean back so that your feet touch the edge of the seat, then, using the chair armrests and resting against them, lower yourself onto the seat. Always keep your operated leg in front of you.

– When wearing socks and shoes, use tools such as a long hook or long tongs. Practice with flip-flops first.

– When washing your feet, use a long-handled sponge and shower with flexible hose.

When climbing steps, put your good leg forward.Then pull up the operated leg and place it next to it. Going down the stairs, place the operated leg first.

After being discharged from the hospital, you know how to do everything you need to do: do therapeutic exercises, sit, walk. You can do without outside help.

Right now, much in the work of the replaced joint depends on you. Only by doing gymnastics from day to day will you achieve good results. Knee pain will be less and less bothersome. The strength of the leg muscles will increase.The range of motion in the operated joint will increase. Joint replacement is a big operation, don’t be surprised if it takes several months to fully recover. The attending physician will tell you the recommendations necessary for discharge.

When to see a doctor

Call your attending physician or operating surgeon if:

– joint pain is increasing;
– You feel pain or swelling in your leg above or below the knee;
– there is an unusual redness, heat or wetness at the site of surgery;
– the body temperature has increased.

Shower and bathing

For the first six weeks after the operation, it is advisable to avoid taking a hot bath and it is better to wash in a warm shower. In this case, it is desirable to have someone nearby until you feel confident. If the bath cannot be avoided, then we advise you to adhere to some simple rules that make taking it as safe as possible. First, avoid very hot baths until 6 – 8 weeks – this is not at all connected with the possible heating of your new joint, as patients mistakenly think.Rather, it is caused by the dangerous effect of hot water on the possibility of blood clots in the operated leg. Secondly, when entering the bathroom, always sit on the edge opposite the tap. The legs are transferred in turn to the bathroom, while the entire load should be transferred to the hands, with which you must firmly hold the edges. After that, you can carefully immerse yourself in the water, while the entire load should be transferred to a slightly bent healthy leg, and it is better to keep the patient straightened.

You should also carefully leave the bath, again concentrating all the load on the hands and healthy leg.The sore leg moves smoothly out of the bath, remaining in a straightened position.

It is strictly not allowed to visit the bathhouse or sauna during the first 1.5-3 months.

Houses

While at home, you need:

– continue to practice remedial gymnastics;
– bandage the operated leg with an elastic bandage up to 3 months after the operation and follow the recommendations of the attending physician;
– take care of your health because exacerbation of chronic diseases, acute infections, hypothermia, overwork can lead to inflammation of the operated joint;
– observe the simplest precautions at home: walk in shoes with low heels, remove for a while movable rugs, wires, walk carefully on a damp surface, try to prevent pets from getting under your feet;
– do feasible homework, alternate the time of work, rest, gymnastics;
– try to walk with the help of relatives, friends;
– Avoid standing in one place for a long time.Being on the move is much more beneficial than standing or even sitting in one position;
– try not to overload the leg, especially make sure that no fluid appears in the joint during stress, avoid stress (including sports) associated with sudden movements, jumps, kicks, vibration. From sports activities, leisurely cycling, slow skiing, swimming are useful;
– also watch your activity, keep walking, return to active life, for this you have operated!

For knee arthroplasty:

1.What to have with you for hospitalization?

You must have two elastic bandages of 5 meters and crutches with you.

2. How is the endoprosthesis attached?

By the type of fixation, all endoprostheses are cement – fixed to the bone with bone cement. The type of endoprosthesis is determined by the doctor based on the results of a comprehensive examination.

3. What is replaced in a joint with an artificial one?

In endoprosthetics of the knee joints, the articular surfaces of the femur and tibia are replaced.

4. Is pain possible after surgery?

Pain sensations are possible. They are associated with many factors (pathological changes in the tissues surrounding the joint, degenerative changes in the spine, etc.).

5. How long will you stay in the hospital?

In the hospital, the patient, with satisfactory healing of the surgical wound, remains until the removal of stitches (about 10 days after the operation) and by the time of discharge, the patient, as a rule, walks with the help of crutches.

6.How long does the prosthesis last?

The average service life of the endoprosthesis depends on the conditions of its use (motor regime, physical activity). Currently, experts determine the percentage of survival of endoprostheses. Some constructions last up to 25 years.

7. Will there be lameness?

It cannot be guaranteed that it will disappear. It depends on many factors (different lengths of limbs, muscle condition, range of motion, pelvic misalignment, spinal deformity, etc.)

8.What are the possible complications?

General somatic and local complications are possible. The general somatic includes the exacerbation of concomitant diseases. Of the local, thrombophlebitis, dysfunction of the nerves of the extremities, dislocation of the endoprosthesis are most often noted.

9. What causes the dislocation?

In the early postoperative period (up to 6 months), the joint is not sufficiently fixed by the muscles and ligaments of the joint, therefore, if the orthopedic regime is violated, dislocation of the endoprosthesis is possible.Patients after surgery should not bend the leg at the knee joint more than 90 degrees.

10. Is it possible to exercise (running, lifting weights) after the operation?

In the postoperative period, patients receive physical activity in the form of physiotherapy exercises. Physical activity is possible 6 months after the operation, provided that the function of the limb is fully restored. But given the biomechanics of the artificial joint, it is advisable to avoid those sports that involve lifting or carrying weights (more than 10-15 kg.), sharp, intermittent axial loads on the operated limb (horseback riding, running, jumping, weightlifting, etc.).

11. When can you have sex?

Sexual life is possible no earlier than in 1-1.5 months. This period is necessary for the healing of the muscles and ligaments surrounding the operated joint. At the same time, the posture in which a sparing orthopedic regime is observed for the operated joint is of great importance.

12. Is it possible to wear heels?

It is possible, however, preferably not to overextend the leg muscles involved in walking.

13. When can I drive a car?

3 months after surgery. In the first 6 months, when getting in and out of the car, you need to remember to observe the orthopedic regime. Try to move the seat back as much as possible, half-recline the chair.

14. Can I kneel?

You can stand on your knees, but when changing position you need to remember to observe the orthopedic regime.

90,000 Pain in the leg below the knee. Severely sore under the knee joint

Problems with the lumbosacral region, varicose veins, pinched nerve processes, mechanical damage to ligaments and tendons are just a few of the possible causes of sharp or aching pain under the knee.

Every person complains of painful symptoms in a complex knee joint from time to time: patients of orthopedists, traumatologists, chiropractors and, of course, osteopaths are both those who lead an active lifestyle and those who have become “victims” of physical inactivity. A person constantly makes new demands on the knee joint, which he is not always able to fulfill – which leads to various disorders. Often, when a patient complains that his leg under the knee hurts when walking, he just needs to change his shoes – for a more comfortable, wide or low one.

Acute pain below the knee is usually associated with injuries:

• tendons, which serve as the connecting element between bone and muscle.
• Tendons are very strong, but not too elastic, therefore they are “afraid” of stretching;
• ligaments that will connect the bones;
• meniscus – shock-absorbing pads that can break under excessive stress;
• patella, a fracture of which also causes severe pain under the knee;
• dislocation of the knee joint;
• injury to the bone itself: if the bone below the knee hurts, the reason may lie in the detachment
• thin bone film (periosteum).

When, in the course of sports – after a run, jumping, cycling, exercising on simulators or after a long climb up the stairs – the legs below the knees hurt, it may be an excessive load, which led to irritation or inflammation of muscle tissues, ligaments, synovial bags (bursitis). To get rid of pain and strengthen muscles, it is enough to undergo a treatment course in an osteopathic clinic, where an experienced specialist will identify the cause of the discomfort, help restore damaged tissues, and also give practical recommendations to avoid a recurrence of the situation in the future.

If an 11-15-year-old boy complains that he often has pain below the knee – in the front of it, the doctor can diagnose Osgood-Schlatter disease.

Obesity is a disease that leads to a wide variety of negative consequences and can also cause pain in the legs below the knee. In this case, in order to get rid of painful symptoms, you must first defeat excess weight. An osteopath, unlike a traumatologist, looks for the cause of pain not only in the joint itself, but in the whole body, this explains the effectiveness of osteopathic treatment.

Swelling and pain in the leg below the knee can be the result of a cyst, which in turn can form due to arthritis, which should be paid attention to.

Disorders in the hip joint or pinched nerves can also cause pain under the knee joint – in this case, complex treatment is required, which cannot be done without the help of an osteopath.

The Clinic of the Higher Russian School of Osteopathic Medicine accepts patients in Moscow and St.