Pain or tenderness in legs is not a normal condition. At Vein Specialists of Geneva & Elk Grove, our experienced board-certified doctor, Dr. Kevin P. Kern, offers expert vascular evaluation and leg pain treatment in our Geneva and Elk Grove Village locations. We address the root cause of your leg pain to help you achieve lasting relief.
How Vein Disease Can Cause Leg Pain
One of the most common causes of pain in the lower extremities is venous insufficiency, a condition in which the veins stretch over time and the one-way valves inside the veins stop functioning properly.
When these valves weaken or fail, blood can begin to flow backward and pool in the lower legs instead of moving efficiently toward the heart. Gravity increases this backward flow, allowing blood to collect in the veins. As pressure builds inside the leg veins, a condition known as chronic venous hypertension develops.
Over time, this elevated pressure stretches the vein walls and places stress on surrounding tissues. The persistent pressure and reduced circulation can trigger inflammation in the soft tissues of the leg, which may lead to symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, and skin changes.
Pain or tenderness in the legs may also result from clotting in the veins. Superficial thrombophlebitis refers to clotting and inflammation in veins near the surface of the skin, while deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs in deeper veins within the muscles of the leg. Untreated venous thrombosis may worsen and can lead to valve damage or a clot that travels to the lungs, known as a pulmonary embolism.
Patients with soft tissue pain or tenderness in the legs are sometimes misdiagnosed when obvious varicose veins are not present. In some cases, patients receive a venous ultrasound that only checks for blood clots. If testing for venous insufficiency is not performed, the underlying circulation problem may be missed.
If you experience persistent leg pain or tenderness, a complete diagnostic venous duplex ultrasound should be performed. This specialized test evaluates both blood clots and venous insufficiency and is best performed in a center dedicated to the evaluation of vein disease.
What Causes Leg Pain and Tenderness?
Several conditions can lead to discomfort in the legs, including:
• Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI): When vein valves fail, blood pools in the legs and causes aching, heaviness, and tenderness.
• Varicose veins: Enlarged veins can cause pain, swelling, itching, and skin irritation.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A clot in a deep vein can cause swelling, redness, and severe pain and requires immediate medical attention.
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow caused by narrowed arteries can lead to cramping or pain during activity.
• Muscle strains or injuries: Overuse or trauma to muscles can cause soreness or tenderness.
Signs You Should Seek Medical Attention
Leg pain and tenderness that persist or worsen over time shouldn’t be ignored. Symptoms such as swelling, skin discoloration, or a feeling of heaviness in the legs may indicate a more serious vein-related condition. Seeking expert care ensures proper diagnosis and treatment, helping you avoid potential complications.
Advanced Treatment Options For Leg Pain
At Vein Specialists of Geneva & Elk Grove, we offer a range of state-of-the-art treatments designed to target the underlying cause of your leg pain. These include:
- Procedures: Treatments like endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) and radiofrequency ablation use advanced technology to provide fast relief with minimal recovery time. We also offer non-thermal options such as VenaSeal.
- Sclerotherapy: This popular procedure uses injections to treat spider and varicose veins, alleviating pain and improving appearance. We offer both traditional liquid sclerotherapy and advanced foam sclerotherapy, such as Varithena.
- Conservative Therapy: Custom compression garments promote blood flow and help reduce swelling and discomfort, and we work with patients to incorporate healthier habits, such as improved diet, regular exercise, and other strategies to maintain vein health.
Why Patients Choose Vein Specialists of Geneva & Elk Grove
At Vein Specialists of Geneva & Elk Grove, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care tailored to the needs of each patient. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced Professionals: Our team is led by board-certified vein specialists with extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating vein conditions.
- Modern Facilities: Our clinic is equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies to ensure accurate and effective care.
- Patient-Focused Approach: From consultation to follow-up, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction, offering personalized solutions to help you achieve the best outcomes.
- Convenient Location: Based in Geneva and Elk Grove Village, IL, we serve patients throughout the surrounding areas, making expert vein care accessible and hassle-free.
Regain Comfort and Mobility in Geneva and Elk Grove Village
Living with leg pain and tenderness can make everyday activities like walking, exercising, or even resting a challenge. These symptoms often stem from underlying vein conditions that can worsen without proper care. At Vein Specialists of Geneva & Elk Grove in Geneva and Elk Grove Village, we specialize in identifying and treating vein-related issues, providing personalized solutions to help patients feel their best. If leg pain or tenderness is interfering with your life, there’s no need to wait. Call our office at 224.521.4224 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kern and learn how you can free yourself from leg pain.