Lower and Upper Leg Pain

Years ago I started experiencing sporadic pains in my legs. Nothing severe enough, or constant enough, to call for immediate medical attention, but certainly bothersome enough to sometimes get in the way of a good night's sleep. It never occurred to me that the pains could be caused by something as simple as back pain caused by a misaligned spine.

Now I know!  And, have far less pain because of it!

Although there are many causes for leg discomfort and pain, some more serious than others, many people aren't aware that a connection exists leg and back pain.

The Back and Leg Pain Connection

When pressure is applied to any of the nerve roots in the spine, pain can travel downward through the leg. Often, it is the sciatic nerve which is affected, causing symptoms of sciatica - typically described as pain in back of leg. However, any nerve can be affected and display one or more symptoms, such as:

• numbness
• tingling
• weakness
• burning
• feeling of electric current running through the leg

These sensations may transfer not only to your upper and lower legs, or your knees, but also to your feet, causing a painful foot problem.

You may also be interested in:
Knee Stretching Exercise, Knee Pain Relief

Other Causes of Leg Pain

If any of your symptoms are constant or severe, or include the following, talk with your doctor.

• chronic leg pain
• sharp shooting pain
• fever
• leg is swollen or discolored
• progressive weakness when standing
• bowel or bladder problems
• recent injury or trauma

• a torn or strained muscle
• nerve damage
• blood clot, known as deep vein thrombosis
• bone fracture
• diabetes
• arthritis or gout
• hip displacement
• infection
• artery blockage
• shin splints
• fibromyalgia
• varicose veins
• leg muscle cramping
• medications
• tumors or cysts

Your doctor can do a proper evaluation and recommend the appropriate leg pain relief. Depending on your situation treatment could be something as simple as rest and leg elevation, along with ice therapy or heat therapy, or it may consist of a more aggressive form of treatment.

Given how dependent we are on the use of our legs, leg health should be a top priority. With the approval of your doctor you may want to begin walking for exercise and incorporating some easy knee stretching exercise into your daily activities. AND, don't overlook the importance of paying special attention to your feet!