Pain or tenderness in legs is not a normal condition. One of the most common causes of pain in the lower extremity is venous insufficiency, a condition in which the veins stretch over time and the one-way valves in the veins fail. This valve failure allows venous blood to flow down the leg due to the effect of gravity. This downward flow of blood causes high pressures to develop in the leg veins. This high pressure (chronic venous hypertension) causes stretching in the vein walls which may cause pain. An inflammatory condition will develop over time around the veins resulting in pain and/or tenderness in the soft tissues of the leg.
Pain or tenderness in legs may also be the result of clotting (thrombosis) in the veins. Superficial thrombophlebitis refers to clotting and inflammatory changes in the veins of the skin and fatty tissues and deep vein thrombosis refers to clotting in veins inside the muscles of the leg. Untreated venous thrombosis may worsen and may result in more pain, destruction of valves in the veins, or clot which migrates (embolizes) to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
Some of the other causes of leg pain include bone or joint disorders, low back problems such as arthritis or disc degeneration with compression of nerves, neuropathy, infection, arterial insufficiency (blockage of arteries carrying blood to the legs), or trauma. Fibromyalgia often is diagnosed for leg pain which turns out to be due to venous insufficiency.
Too often, patients with soft tissue pain or tenderness of the legs are misdiagnosed if they do not have large, obvious varicose veins of the legs. They may be sent for a venous ultrasound exam at a laboratory which tests only for venous thrombus (clot) and ultrasound testing for venous insufficiency is not performed. A “normal” report after testing only for venous thrombus will miss the diagnosis of venous insufficiency.
If you have soft tissue pain or tenderness of the lower extremities, be sure that you get a complete diagnostic venous color duplex ultrasound exam, including testing for venous insufficiency. This is a specialized exam which is best performed in a center dedicated to the evaluation of venous diseases.
What Causes Leg Pain and Tenderness?
A variety of conditions can lead to discomfort in the legs, but some of the most common include:
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): When the valves in your veins don’t function correctly, blood can pool in the legs, leading to aching, heaviness, and discomfort.
- Varicose Veins: Enlarged, twisted veins not only affect appearance but also cause pain, tenderness, swelling, and itching.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A clot in a deep vein can lead to significant pain, swelling, and redness. This condition is serious and requires immediate medical care to prevent complications.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Caused by reduced blood flow to the legs due to narrowed arteries, PAD can result in cramping, fatigue, and pain during physical activity.
- Muscle Strains or Injuries: Overuse or injury to the muscles may cause soreness or tenderness. While often temporary, chronic pain may signal a vascular issue requiring evaluation.
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 at Vein Specialists of Geneva
At Vein Specialists of Geneva, 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.
- Sclerotherapy: This popular procedure uses injections to treat spider and varicose veins, alleviating pain and improving appearance.
- Compression Therapy: Custom compression garments promote blood flow and help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Lifestyle Guidance: 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
At Vein Specialists of Geneva, 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: Located in Geneva, IL, 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, IL, we serve patients throughout the surrounding areas, making expert vein care accessible and hassle-free.
Regain Comfort and Mobility
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 in Geneva, IL, 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. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free legs.
Contact our office today at (630) 425-0800 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kern and begin your journey to healthier, pain free legs.
