What causes severe pain in the upper leg? Discover the top 10 causes of extreme pain in the upper leg, including thigh bone infection, spinal stenosis, and more. Get expert medical advice on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Thigh Bone Infection (Osteomyelitis)

Osteomyelitis of the thigh, or thigh bone infection, is a bacterial or fungal infection of the thigh bone, typically caused by Staphylococcus Aureus (40-50% of the time). It is difficult to diagnose as the infection can come from a break in the skin at the area or anywhere else in the body that spreads by blood. You should seek immediate medical care at an ER, where diagnosis of osteomyelitis can be established through x-rays and culturing fluids. Treatment involves antibiotics and removing the infected tissue (by surgery).

Spinal Stenosis

The spine, or backbone, protects the spinal cord and allows people to stand and bend. Spinal stenosis causes narrowing in the spine. The narrowing puts pressure on nerves and the spinal cord and can cause pain. Next steps include visiting a primary care physician. For this condition, a physician might suggest further investigation including imaging of the spine. Treatments may include medications, physical therapy, or braces. For severe cases, surgery is sometimes recommended.

Repetitive Strain Injury of the Quadriceps

Repetitive strain injury of the upper leg is caused by consistent repetitive use. You do not need treatment, just rest from your overuse. Wearing a brace and physical therapy might be helpful.

Repetitive Strain Injury of the Hamstring

Repetitive strain injury of the upper leg is caused by consistent repetitive use. You do not need treatment, just rest from your overuse. Wearing a brace and physical therapy might be helpful.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is also called runner’s knee, jumper’s knee, anterior knee pain, chondromalacia patella, and patellofemoral joint syndrome. Overuse through training for sports is a common cause, especially if there is a misalignment in the knee joint or a previous knee injury. This wears away the cartilage beneath the kneecap and causes pain on exercising. It is most common in females and in young adults who are active in sports, but can affect anyone. Symptoms include dull pain at the front of the knee and around the kneecap (patella) while running, squatting, or climbing stairs, or after prolonged sitting with knees bent. Diagnosis is made through physical examination and through x-rays, CT scan, and/or MRI. Treatment most often involves rest; over-the-counter pain relievers; low-impact exercise such as swimming or bicycling; physical therapy to strengthen and stabilize the knee; and orthotics (shoe inserts) to help correct a misaligned stride. Surgery is needed only for severe cases, and is done through arthroscopy to remove any fragments of damaged cartilage.

Mild/Moderate Hip Arthritis

Arthritis of the hip is inflammation of one or more of the joints in the hip. Pain, swelling, and stiffness are the primary symptoms of arthritis. Hip arthritis can make it hard to do many everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. It is a major cause of lost work time and a serious disability for many people. The goal of hip arthritis treatment is to relieve pain and maintain the function of the hip. Your doctor will be able to suggest a future course of action, such as pain medication, walking aids, or changing to more appropriate footwear.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is a common overuse injury that causes pain on the outside of the knee. The iliotibial band is a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh and knee. Repetitive activities, such as running, cycling, or hiking, can cause friction and inflammation in this area, leading to pain. Symptoms include pain on the outside of the knee, especially when bending or straightening the leg. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the knee. In some cases, cortisone injections or surgery may be necessary.

Trochanteric Bursitis

Trochanteric bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac, located on the bony prominence on the side of the hip (the greater trochanter). This can be caused by repetitive activities, injury, or underlying conditions like arthritis. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside of the hip, especially when lying on the affected side or climbing stairs. Treatment usually involves rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the hip muscles. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be needed.

Muscle Strain

A muscle strain, also known as a pulled muscle, occurs when a muscle is overstretched or torn. This is a common injury in the upper leg, particularly in the quadriceps or hamstring muscles. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected muscle. Treatment involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as over-the-counter pain medication. In severe cases, physical therapy may be recommended to help the muscle heal properly.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis is inflammation of a tendon, the tissue that connects muscle to bone. In the upper leg, tendinitis can occur in the quadriceps tendon (above the knee) or the hamstring tendons (behind the knee). Symptoms include pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion in the affected area. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons.

Nerve Entrapment

Nerve entrapment in the upper leg can occur when a nerve becomes compressed or pinched, often due to injury, overuse, or underlying conditions like arthritis or diabetes. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. Diagnosis often involves a physical exam and potentially nerve conduction studies or imaging tests. Treatment may include over-the-counter pain medication, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery to release the entrapped nerve.

Severe Upper Leg Pain | 10 Causes for Extreme Pain in Upper Leg

Thigh bone infection (osteomyelitis)

Osteomyelitis of the thigh, or thigh bone infection, is a bacterial or fungal infection of the thigh bone, typically caused by Staph Aureus (40-50% of the time). It is difficult to diagnose as the infection can come from a break in the skin at the area or anywhere else in the body that spreads by blood.

You should seek immediate medical care at an ER, where diagnosis of osteomyelitis can be established through x-rays and culturing fluids. Treatment involves antibiotics and removing the infected tissue (by surgery).

Rarity: Rare

Top Symptoms: moderate fever, constant upper leg pain, spontaneous thigh pain, painful surgical site, warm red upper leg swelling

Symptoms that always occur with thigh bone infection (osteomyelitis): spontaneous thigh pain, constant upper leg pain

Urgency: Hospital emergency room

Spinal stenosis

The spine, or backbone, protects the spinal cord and allows people to stand and bend. Spinal stenosis causes narrowing in the spine. The narrowing puts pressure on nerves and the spinal cord and can cause pain.

Next steps including visiting a primary care physician. For this condition, a physician might suggest further investigation including imaging of the spine. Treatments may include medications, physical therapy, or braces. For severe cases, surgery is sometimes recommended.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: lower back pain, back pain that shoots down the leg, back pain that shoots to the butt, difficulty walking, thigh pain

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Repetitive strain injury of the quadriceps

Repetitive strain injury of the upper leg is caused by consistent repetitive use.

You do not need treatment, just rest from your overuse. Wearing a brace and physical therapy might be helpful.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: upper leg numbness, thigh weakness, thigh pain from overuse

Symptoms that always occur with repetitive strain injury of the quadriceps: thigh pain from overuse

Symptoms that never occur with repetitive strain injury of the quadriceps: upper leg injury, severe upper leg pain

Urgency: Self-treatment

Repetitive strain injury of the hamstring

Repetitive strain injury of the upper leg is caused by consistent repetitive use.

You do not need treatment, just rest from your overuse. Wearing a brace and physical therapy might be helpful.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: upper leg numbness, thigh weakness, hamstring pain from overuse

Symptoms that always occur with repetitive strain injury of the hamstring: hamstring pain from overuse

Symptoms that never occur with repetitive strain injury of the hamstring: upper leg injury, severe upper leg pain

Urgency: Self-treatment

Patellofemoral pain syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is also called runner’s knee, jumper’s knee, anterior knee pain, chondromalacia patella, and patellofemoral joint syndrome.

Overuse through training for sports is a common cause, especially if there is a misalignment in the knee joint or a previous knee injury. This wears away the cartilage beneath the kneecap and causes pain on exercising.

It is most common in females and in young adults who are active in sports, but can affect anyone.

Symptoms include dull pain at the front of the knee and around the kneecap (patella) while running, squatting, or climbing stairs, or after prolonged sitting with knees bent.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination and through x-rays, CT scan, and/or MRI.

Treatment most often involves rest; over-the-counter pain relievers; low-impact exercise such as swimming or bicycling; physical therapy to strengthen and stabilize the knee; and orthotics (shoe inserts) to help correct a misaligned stride.

Surgery is needed only for severe cases, and is done through arthroscopy to remove any fragments of damaged cartilage.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: knee pain, pain in one knee, knee pain that gets worse when going up stairs, dull, achy knee pain, knee pain that gets worse when squatting

Symptoms that always occur with patellofemoral pain syndrome: knee pain

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Mild/moderate hip arthritis

Arthritis of the hip is inflammation of one or more of the joints in the hip. Pain, swelling, and stiffness are the primary symptoms of arthritis. Hip arthritis can make it hard to do many everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. It is a major cause of lost work time and a serious disability for many people.

The goal of hip arthritis treatment is to relieve pain and maintain the function of the hip. Your doctor will be able to suggest a future course of action, such as pain medication, walking aids, or changing to more appropriate footwear.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: hip pain, difficulty walking, pain in one hip, limping, groin pain

Symptoms that always occur with mild/moderate hip arthritis: hip pain

Symptoms that never occur with mild/moderate hip arthritis: severe hip pain

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome (‘runner’s knee’)

Iliotibial band syndrome is also called ITBS or IT syndrome. The iliotibial band is a long, thick piece of connective tissue that begins at the top of the hip bone, runs down the outside of the leg, and attaches at the side of the knee.

ITBS is an overuse syndrome. Athletes in heavy training are susceptible to it, especially runners and cyclists. Pain and inflammation result if the far end of the iliotibial band constantly rubs against the outside of the knee joint.

Symptoms include pain on the outside of the knee, especially while running or while sitting with the knee flexed.

Diagnosis is made through patient history and physical examination, with simple stretching tests to identify the exact location of the pain. An MRI is sometimes ordered.

Treatment involves rest; ice; over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; stretching exercises for the iliotibial band; strengthening of the upper leg muscles; and, if needed, changes in the way the person strides or trains. Corticosteroid injections can be helpful and surgery may be tried in some cases.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: knee pain, pain in one knee, dull, achy knee pain, knee pain that gets worse when going down stairs, sharp knee pain

Symptoms that always occur with iliotibial (it) band syndrome (‘runner’s knee’): knee pain

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Femoral stress fracture

Femoral stress fracture means there is a break in the femur, or thighbone. The femur is the largest and strongest bone in the body and is important for bearing weight. A femoral stress fracture usually occurs in the top of the bone where it connects to the pelvis.

Stress fractures happen from overuse and/or from weakness in the bone from disease, rather than from trauma. Those in heavy physical training, such as athletes and military trainees, are vulnerable to femoral stress fracture. But anyone suffering from malnutrition or osteoporosis is vulnerable to a stress fracture, even with ordinary activities of daily living.

Symptoms include pain deep in the thigh or groin, especially during exercise. The pain may have started gradually instead of being sudden, as with a traumatic injury. The condition might be thought to be a simple strain.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination, with simple tests such as hopping on the painful leg, and imaging.

Treatment involves rest; improved nutrition; study of proper training and striding techniques; and sometimes surgery.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: dull, achy hip pain, pain in one thigh, thigh pain, spontaneous hip pain

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Deep vein thrombosis

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein deep in the body, usually in the lower leg or thigh. DVT can cause swelling, pain, and redness in the affected leg. Some of the risk factors for developing DVT include obesity, pregnancy, cancer, surgery, and previous history of blood clots.

You should consider calling your primary care or urgent care provider. Deep vein thrombosis can be evaluated with a review of your symptoms, a physical exam, and an ultrasound. A blood test may also be performed. Once diagnosed, DVT can be treated with blood-thinning medication, which is usually taken for three months.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: fever, thigh pain, upper leg swelling, calf pain, butt pain

Urgency: Hospital emergency room

Compartment syndrome

Acute compartment syndrome describes the damage done to certain muscle groups of the arms or legs after a traumatic injury.

All of the long muscles are bundled into sections – “compartments” – by the white sheets of strong, tough connective tissue called fascia. If something interferes with circulation so that blood flow is trapped within the compartment, pressure rises because the fascia cannot stretch. This causes serious damage to the muscles and other tissues within the compartment.

Acute compartment syndrome is caused by a broken bone; a crush injury; burns, due to scarred and tightened skin; and bandages or casts applied before an injury has stopped swelling.

Symptoms can rapidly intensify. They include severe pain and tightness in the muscle; tingling or burning sensation; and sometimes numbness and weakness.

Acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency which can result in loss of the limb. Take the patient to the emergency room or call 9-1-1.

Diagnosis is made through patient history and physical examination.

Treatment involves hospitalization for emergency surgery and, in some cases, skin graft.

Rarity: Rare

Top Symptoms: arm numbness, hand numbness, foot numbness, pain in one leg, thigh numbness

Urgency: Hospital emergency room

Pain in Upper Thigh: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

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Upper thigh pain may occur if you strain your hamstring muscle. But sometimes, it can be an indicator of a serious condition, including a blood clot.

Discomfort in your upper thigh, such as aching, burning, or pain, can be a common experience. While in most cases it’s nothing to be alarmed about, there are some instances in which pain in your upper thigh can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.

Thigh pain can range from a mild ache to a sharp shooting sensation. It may also be accompanied by other symptoms including:

• itching
• tingling
• difficulty walking
• numbness
• burning sensation

When pain comes on suddenly, there’s no apparent cause, or it doesn’t respond to home treatments, such as ice, heat, and rest, you should seek medical treatment.

There are numerous conditions that may contribute to upper thigh pain. They include:

Meralgia paresthetica

Caused by pressure on the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, meralgia paresthetica (MP) may cause tingling, numbness, and a burning pain in the outer part of your thigh. It typically occurs on one side of the body and is caused by compression of the nerve.

Common causes of meralgia paresthetica include:

• tight clothing
• being overweight or obese
• pregnancy
• scar tissue from a past injury or surgery
• diabetes-related nerve injury
• carrying a wallet or cell phone in the front and side pockets of pants
• hypothyroidism
• lead poisoning

Treatment involves identifying the underlying cause, then taking measures such as wearing looser clothing or losing weight to alleviate pressure. Exercises that reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility and strength may also help alleviate pain. Prescription medications and surgery may be recommended in some cases.

Blood clot or deep vein thrombosis

While many blood clots aren’t harmful, when one forms deep in one of your major veins, it’s a serious condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). While deep vein clots appear more frequently in the lower legs, they can also form in one or both thighs. Sometimes there are no symptoms, but other times they may include:

• swelling
• pain
• tenderness
• a warm sensation
• a pale or bluish discoloration

As a result of DVT, some people develop a life-threatening condition known as pulmonary embolism in which a blood clot travels to the lungs. Symptoms include:

• sudden shortness of breath
• chest pain or discomfort that worsens when you take a deep breath or when you cough
• lightheadedness or dizziness
• rapid pulse
• coughing up blood

Risk factors for DVT include:

• having an injury that damages your veins
• being overweight, which puts more pressure on the veins in your legs and pelvis
• having a family history of DVT
• having a catheter placed in a vein
• taking birth control pills or undergoing hormone therapy
• smoking (especially heavy usage)
• staying seated for a long time while you’re in a car or on a plane, especially if you already have at least one other risk factor
• pregnancy
• surgery

Treatment for DVT ranges from lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, to prescription blood thinners, the use compression stockings, and surgery in some cases.

Diabetic neuropathy

A complication of diabetes, diabetic neuropathy occurs as a result of uncontrolled high blood sugar levels. It typically begins in the hands or feet, but it can spread to other parts of the body as well, including the thighs. Symptoms include:

• sensitivity to touch
• loss of sense of touch
• difficulty with coordination when walking
• numbness or pain in your extremities
• muscle weakness or wasting
• nausea and indigestion
• diarrhea or constipation
• dizziness upon standing
• excessive sweating
• vaginal dryness in women and erectile dysfunction in men

While there is no cure for diabetic neuropathy, treatment to manage pain and other symptoms may involve lifestyle changes and measures to maintain healthy blood sugar levels as well as medications for pain management.

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome can cause pain in the outside of your upper thighs. It’s typically caused by injury, pressure, or repetitive movements, and it’s common in runners and in women.

Symptoms may include:

• pain worsening when lying on the affected side
• pain that worsens over time
• pain following weight-bearing activities, such as walking or running
• hip muscle weakness

Treatment may include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, treatment with ice, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and steroid injections.

IT band syndrome

Also common among runners, iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) happens when the iliotibial band, which runs down the outside of the thigh from the hip to below the knee, becomes tight and inflamed.

Symptoms include pain and swelling, which is typically felt around the knees, but it can also be felt sometimes in the thigh. Treatment includes limiting physical activity, physical therapy, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation. In some extreme cases, surgery may be necessary.

Muscle strains

While muscle strains can happen in any part of the body, they’re common in the hamstring and may cause thigh pain. Symptoms may include:

• sudden onset of pain
• soreness
• limited range of movement
• bruising or discoloration
• swelling
• a “knotted-up” feeling
• muscle spasms
• stiffness
• weakness

Typically, strains can be treated with ice, heat and anti-inflammatory medications, but more severe strains or tears may require treatment by a doctor. You should see a doctor if the pain doesn’t get better after several days or if the area is numb, arises without a clear cause, or leaves you unable to move your leg.

Hip flexor strain

Hip flexor muscles can be strained with overuse, and can cause pain or muscle spasms in your thighs as well. Other symptoms of hip flexor strain may include:

• pain that seems to come on suddenly
• increasing pain when you lift your thigh toward your chest
• pain when stretching your hip muscles
• muscle spasms at your hip or thigh
• tenderness to the touch at the front of your hip
• swelling or bruising at your hip or thigh area

Most hip flexor strains can be treated at home with ice, over-the-counter pain relievers, heat, rest, and exercises. In some severe cases, physical therapy and surgery may be recommended.

While there are various causes of thigh pain, each with their own risk factors, common ones include:

• repetitive exercises, such as running
• being overweight or obese
• diabetes
• pregnancy

Diagnosis for most conditions that contribute to thigh pain will involve a physical examination by a physician who will evaluate the risk factors and symptoms. In the case of meralgia paresthetica, doctors may order an electromyogram/nerve conduction study (EMG/NCS) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine if nerves have been damaged.

If you need help finding a primary care doctor, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

In most cases, thigh pain can be treated with home remedies such as:

• ice
• heat
• over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil)
• weight management
• moderating activity
• stretching and strengthening exercises for the pelvis, hip, and core

However, if those measures don’t provide relief after several days or if more serious symptoms accompany the pain, you should seek medical treatment. In some cases, physical therapy, prescription medications, and surgery may be required.

The most serious complication of thigh pain is typically related to DVT, which can be life-threatening if not treated. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical treatment:

• shortness of breath
• anxiety
• clammy or bluish skin
• chest pain that may extend into your arm, jaw, neck, and shoulder
• fainting
• irregular heartbeat
• lightheadedness
• rapid breathing
• rapid heartbeat
• restlessness
• spitting up blood
• weak pulse

Determining the underlying cause of thigh pain is key to preventing it going forward. While in the case of DVT, prevention may include prescription medication and the use of compression stockings, in many others, preventative techniques include lifestyle changes and home remedies, including:

• maintaining a healthy weight
• performing stretching exercises
• getting moderate physical activity

In most cases, upper thigh pain is not cause for concern. It can typically be treated at home with some simple strategies such as ice, heat, activity moderation, and over-the-counter medication. However, if those don’t work after several days or if more serious symptoms accompany the thigh pain, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Upper thigh pain: Cause, treatment and prevention

Do you suffer from upper thigh pain? Here you can read more about the possible causes, treatment and prevention of this kind of hip pain.

Upper thigh pain can be caused by a number of different diagnoses. One of the reasons it can be difficult to make a correct diagnosis in this anatomical region is that it is made up of many different muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and other anatomical structures.

– Learn how to get rid of pain

But in this article you will get to know your hip pain – and thus understand how you can get rid of pain. We will also take a closer look at the various causes, functional assessments, treatments, self-care measures (such as the coccyx to relieve the upper thigh and “buttocks”) and present an exercise program (with video) that can help you.

– Examine Pain

If you suffer from recurring or prolonged pain in your upper thigh – whether it is your left or right thigh – we strongly recommend that you have a pain assessment by an authorized physician (physiotherapist or modern chiropractor) ) for a thorough inspection and examination. In all departments of our clinic in Vondtklinikkene, we offer a thorough examination, modern treatment and rehabilitation courses for pain and discomfort in the hip.

– Written by: Pain Clinics – Interdisciplinary Health Department Lambertseter (Oslo) [View full overview of her clinic – link opens in new window]

– Last updated: 10/14/2022

– Hip pain can negatively affect both daily life and leisure activities

In this article, you will find out more, among other things:

+ Common causes

+ Rare and Serious Causes

+ Physical Therapy

+ Modern Chiropractic

+ Pressure Wave Therapy

+ Suggestions for Self-Treatment and Prevention

+ Learn Exercises to Help with Hip Pain

Reasons Why does my upper thigh hurt?

Upper thigh pain can be caused by muscles, nerves, mucous membranes or joints. This is most often due to functional causes in the muscles and joints – in other words, due to improper loading over time (for example, moving too little, too much static load, or doing a little more than your body could handle).

Muscle problems in the hip

As already mentioned, muscles are almost always involved, to a greater or lesser extent, in hip pain. Some of the muscles most commonly involved in this type of pain include:

– Quadriceps (extensor of the knee, which is located in front of the upper thigh)

– Hamstrings (knee flexor – located on the back of the thigh)

– Tensor fascia latte / iliotibial band (runs along the outer side of the thigh from the thigh down towards the outer side of the knee)

– Hip flexors (Iliopsoas – runs from the front of the thigh to the inside of the knee)

These muscles can be affected by prolonged wear and sudden overload (e.g. sports injuries) without sufficient capacity to withstand the aforementioned load. Some common causes of muscle pain include:

Muscle strains and muscle tears

[Figure 1: Department of Eidsvoll Pain Clinic Center for Healthy Chiropractic and Physical Therapy]

Sudden stress can cause severe stretching of the muscle fibers. A good example of this is whiplash, where the victim is thrown forward and then backward. The muscle fibers of the neck are not able to withstand such sudden and abrupt movements, so small micro-tears or “sprains” may occur in the affected structures. After such stress, the muscles also often contract – or go into spasms – to protect the neck from further damage until the brain gets a sense of the situation. In such cases, muscle therapy and pressure wave therapy may be good treatments.

due to injuries

Overload injuries can occur when a muscle or tendon of the thigh is used too hard or for too long, causing damage to the associated muscle fibers (see figure 1 above). If left untreated, such injuries tend to get worse as the area doesn’t get the healing and repair it needs.

Too little movement in daily life (static overload)

But you don’t play sports and the like, you say? It does not help. It’s true that not getting enough exercise or sitting on your butt for too long can also damage your muscles and cause long-term chronic pain.

– Static loading can cause compression in the hip joint

Sitting for long periods puts unnatural pressure on the joints and muscles, especially the hips, thighs and legs. If you don’t move enough, it will also lead to a gradual decrease in muscle function, which in itself can cause widespread muscle pain. Many of us work in an office and thus sit for many hours each day. In such cases, the coccyx can be a great helper to provide a variety of load on the pelvis, hips and back of the thighs. Many use these cushions to achieve the same effect as very expensive office chairs.

Ergonomic Tip: Coccyx Cushion (read more about the product here – link opens in a new window)

Ergonomic Coccyx Cushion is popular with those who suffer from hip pain, lumbago and sciatica, among other things. The unloading design means that compression forces are better distributed and the cushion absorbs most of the load.You can read more about the product or buy it by clicking on the images above or linking to it.

Nerve irritation or radiating pain

Sciatica and sciatica are terms that indicate that certain structures directly or indirectly put pressure on the sciatic nerve. Depending on where the irritation is located, it can cause pain that radiates or radiates to the hip, thigh, lower leg, and foot. Often this nerve pain is due to a combination of joint and muscle dysfunction, but can also be due to disc injury (eg, prolapse with L3 nerve root involvement).

– Nerve decompression can lead to lameness and improper exercise

Nerve pain can also lead to changes in gait. Have you seen someone with a really bad back who is limping and clearly in pain? Think about what this altered gait does to the muscles, tendons, and joints – yes, it contributes to what we call “compensatory pain”, which is that you tense the muscles and areas that this altered gait also causes painful. In the case of nerve pain, we strongly recommend that you conduct a pain study – remember that our clinicians know Pain Clinics have a high professional competence in this area.

There are other diagnoses that cause nerve pain in the hip, including:

• Peripheral neuropathy
• Bernhardt-Roth Syndrome

We will review them below.

Peripheral neuropathy

The peripheral nervous system may be damaged, pinched or irritated. This diagnosis indicates that we have damage or an effect on the nervous tissue, which can be caused by, among other things, functional causes (muscles and joints), diabetes, alcohol abuse or poor nutrition.

Typical symptoms of this neuropathy are unusual sensory changes in the hips and legs, which may include burning, numbness, tingling, and radiation pain.

Bernhardt-Roth syndrome

This syndrome indicates that we have an injury or a negative effect on the nerve that causes skin sensitivity on the outside of the thigh (the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh). If this nerve is damaged, the affected person may notice that there is no sensation on the outside of the thigh at the top, and that affected patients often report numbness or tingling in the affected area.

Less common causes of upper thigh pain

• Blood clot (deep vein thrombosis)
• Fibromyalgia (chronic pain syndrome)
• Rheumatism and arthritis

There are more possible diagnoses than those we mentioned above, among others, a number of chronic pain disorders and rheumatic diagnoses can cause widespread pain that periodically affects the entire body, including the hips.

Blood clot in the thigh (deep vein thrombosis)

Blood clot in a vein can rarely cause pain in the upper thigh and groin. This diagnosis is also known as deep vein thrombosis, a condition that can be life-threatening if part of the clot loosens and then lodges in the lungs, heart, or brain. Such a loose blood clot is a medical emergency.

– Flushing, fever and known risk factors

This condition is especially true for those who already have poor circulation, smoke, have heart problems, are pregnant or overweight. Also, if you are sedentary for longer periods (such as longer flights), it may increase your risk of blood clots. It is recommended to keep moving, wear compression socks, and do light circulation exercises if you are on long trips that involve a lot of sitting.

Fibromyalgia

Studies have shown that people with a chronic diagnosis of fibromyalgia have increased pain sensitivity in muscle fibers and tendons. This means that they tolerate pain more easily and often feel much stronger than people without this diagnosis. One of the characteristics of this chronic pain syndrome is that the pain can spread and affect large areas of the body’s muscles.

Arthritis and rheumatism

There are hundreds of different rheumatic diagnoses. Some, including rheumatoid arthritis, can damage joints and tendons, which in turn leads to pain. Among other things, injuries or osteoarthritis in the hips and knees can transmit pain both up and down from the respective areas.

Risk Factors for Upper Thigh Pain

As mentioned earlier in the article, there are a number of causes for upper thigh pain, the most common of which are muscles, tendons, and joints. But there are risk factors that make you more prone to hip pain. This includes:

• Chronic diseases (such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis)

• Sudden load failure (perhaps a jerk, when did you feel this shock?)

• Overexertion (did you walk or run more than usual?)

• What are you an athlete

• That you do not participate in sports and training

• Reduced circulation

• Previous history of injury or trauma to the hip and leg

Thus, risk factors are highly variable, and this is due, as mentioned earlier, to the fact that possible diagnoses are so widespread.

Upper thigh pain diagnosis

– At Vondtklinikkene you always get a comprehensive functional assessment

So, how does a doctor make a diagnosis? Well, it all starts with detailed storytelling, which provides a foundation for further functional exploration. For example, if the injury occurred when you went into heavy football tackle, chances are good that it is a muscle strain or other muscle injury. Therefore, clinical trials will be adapted to this information. If the pain radiates from the back to the hip, it is highly suspicious that it is nerve irritation and possible disc damage (eg, lumbar prolapse).

Finding the cause of your pain

Our Authorized Physicians Know The Pain Clinic has an exceptionally high level of professional competence in the investigation, treatment and rehabilitation of sports injuries (including hip pain). Our main vision is that the patient is always in the center of attention and we always do our best to achieve the best possible results.

Thus, a typical clinical examination might look like this:

• Capture history (History)
• Clinical examination (including range of motion, muscle tests, neurological testing and orthopedic testing)
• Request for specific tests – e.g. imaging (if necessary)

Upper thigh pain treatment

– Pressure wave therapy can be an effective treatment for tendon injuries and thigh muscle problems.

There are several treatments that can help you with hip pain. We recommend a holistic approach that combines physical therapy with gradual training. Ved Pain Clinics Our state-of-the-art clinicians work daily to investigate, treat and rehabilitate hip injuries and pain, combining therapies individually tailored to each patient.

– It is important to conduct a thorough investigation.

As already mentioned, we always recommend that a thorough examination is at the heart of the treatment plan. Common treatments commonly used for such pain:

• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help you with sore and damaged muscles in the form of exercise and physical therapy.
• Intramuscular Needle Therapy/Muscle Acupuncture: Intramuscular acupuncture may improve muscle function and reduce muscle pain. This type of treatment must be carried out by an officially authorized clinician, including a chiropractor, physiotherapist, or chiropractor.
• Modern Chiropractic: The modern chiropractor combines joint treatment with muscle work, other therapies (such as pressure wave therapy, needles, Graston and/or laser) and adapted rehabilitation exercises.
• Shock Wave Therapy: Studies have shown that wave therapy stimulates the repair and healing of damaged tendon fibers and muscle injuries.¹ This also applies to chronic and long-term conditions. All of our Vondtklinikken clinics are equipped with modern equipment for the treatment of pressure waves.
• Musculoskeletal Laser Therapy: Laser therapy for trauma and inflammation in muscles and tendons has been documented. A Norwegian meta-analysis, the strongest form of research, found that, for example, tendon injuries in the shoulder heal faster when you supplement treatment with laser therapy.² All of our doctors have professional experience with laser devices.

– Don’t walk for long periods of time with pain

If you don’t go to the clinic for a check-up for long-term pain in your upper thigh, you risk getting it worse. See your doctor if you have persistent pain that doesn’t go away. Feel free to contact us at the Pain Clinic if you have any questions about your pain (see contact information at the bottom of the article or follow the link).

Self-care and prevention of hip pain

Many of our patients also ask us how they can actively promote healing and relieve pain. In many cases, our clinicians see a high static load in the form of sitting and therefore often make recommendations for using the coccyx in daily work. In addition, the patient can actively participate in rolling on the trigger point ball, acupressure mat and massage in the conditioner against muscle pain. Such types of self-treatment can also work preventively.

Good Tip: Balls Trigger Point (link opens in new window)

Balls Trigger Point, also known as massage balls, are useful everyday helpers for most of us. Popular with both top athletes and those involved in quiet sports due to its wide range of applications. The balls come in different sizes and are used to locate tight muscles and then massage the area for about 1 minute. Then swap. We recommend daily use. Click on the image or her to learn more about them.

Upper Thigh Pain Workouts and Exercises

Hip Pain Rehabilitation Exercises primarily focus on strengthening the core stability muscles in this area. zones in training – as shown in the training program below. In the video, chiropractor Alexander Andorf shows a workout program consisting of 5 good exercises for pain in the hips and groin. The offer of training 2-3 times a week for 12-16 weeks (you can see the number of repetitions and sets in the video).

VIDEO: 5 exercises for groin strain and hip pain

Be part of our family! Feel free to subscribe for free on our Youtube channel for more free education programs and health knowledge.

Pain Clinics: Contact Us

We offer state-of-the-art methods for the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of hip pain.

Feel free to contact us through one of our clinic departments (clinic overview opens in a new window) or our Facebook page (Vondtklinikkenne – Health and Training) if you have any questions. For appointments, we have 24/7 online booking at various clinics so that you can find the consultation time that suits you best. Of course, you can also call us during clinic opening hours. We have interdisciplinary departments, including in Oslo (including Lambertseter) and Viken (Roholt og Eidsvoll). Our experienced therapists look forward to hearing from you.

Contact us

Research and sources:

1. Notarnicola et al, 2012. Biological effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on tendon tissue. Muscles Ligaments Tendons J. 2012 June 17; 2(1):33-7.

2. Haslerud et al, 2015. Efficacy of low-intensity laser therapy for shoulder tendinopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Physiother Res Int. 2015 Jun;20(2):108-25. [Meta-analysis]

identification of causes and purpose. Which doctor to contact – clinic “Dobrobut”

Main

Medical Library Dobrobut

Publication date: 2019-12-17

Causes of pain in the legs, their varieties and treatment

Most often, pain in the legs appears when blood circulation is disturbed in them, and this can occur with diseases of the vascular system. Also, the causes of pain in the legs can be associated with neurological disorders, injuries, flat feet or problems in the spine. It is believed that the syndrome in question is not an independent disease, but one of the signs of any pathology. Such pain sensations can be different – depending on the violations that provoked their appearance.

Varieties of pain in the legs

Based on the description of pain by the patient, the doctor can make an initial conclusion about the nature of the pathology. Varieties of pain in the legs are as follows:

• pulling, dull, accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and tension – evidence of the initial stage of varicose veins or venous congestion;
• acute, pulsating, lingering, with localization in the calf muscles – a sign of the development of thrombophlebitis;
• pulsating, often occurring at night or after walking even for short distances – most likely, atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities will be diagnosed;
• pulling from the buttock down to the heel, in the form of “shoots” along the calf muscles – the problems lie in the spine;
• dull, occurring during long walking or while running, accompanied by a feeling of heaviness – you need to examine for the presence of flat feet.

If a closed fracture occurs without displacement of the fragments, then the pain may be dull and aching, sometimes throbbing. With open fractures, as well as those accompanied by displacement of bone fragments, extremely intense pain appears, which can lead to pain shock.

Where to go

In case of any pain in the lower extremities, you should consult a doctor. Often, with unexpressed constant or periodically appearing pain in the legs, patients do not rush to the clinic, and this is a big mistake. Due to the early diagnosis of diseases, they can be cured with therapeutic methods, while in advanced cases it will be necessary to resort to surgical intervention.

Which doctor should I contact if I have pain in my legs? If the patient does not know the cause of the pain syndrome, then it is necessary to contact a therapist who, after the examination, will refer to the right specialist – a phlebologist, a surgeon, and so on.

Treatment for pain in the legs

Pain in the legs should not be treated with traditional methods – it is not the pain that is treated, but the disease that provoked it. Even if with the help of any method it was possible to eliminate pain, this does not mean that the problem itself has been solved. The treatment of leg pain can be very different, and only a doctor prescribes it. Appointments for pain relief can be as follows:

• blockade – anesthetics are used for it;
• taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• topical application of ointments or gels;
• injections of antispasmodics – for muscle spasm, which could cause pain.

Patients often have a question: “If you are worried about pain in your legs, what should I do?”. Only a doctor can answer this question after examining the patient and making a diagnosis. The listed manipulations can only relieve pain, therefore, the treatment of the disease, against which there was pain in the legs, should be carried out.

On our website Dobrobut.com, you can make an appointment with a therapist and get more detailed advice from him – why there is pain in the legs, what are its causes, what measures should be taken to stop the pain syndrome.

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