Leg Pain

What are the treatments for the condition?

Leg pain can be treated in a number of ways. The treatment is partly related to the cause. Most commonly used are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These can help with many types of pain, such as that due to injury or arthritis. Medications such as gabapentin and amitriptyline may help treat pain due to nerve damage. Cancer pain can often be treated with medications like morphine or meperidine.

The underlying cause of the leg pain may need to be treated as well. For example, someone with a broken leg may need a cast or surgery. Someone with deep blood clots may need to be treated with blood thinners like heparin or warfarin. An infection may need treatment with antibiotics. A person with a bone tumor or cancer may need surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects depend on the treatments used. NSAIDs may cause allergic reactions or stomach upset. Blood thinners may cause abnormal bleeding if the blood gets too thin. Surgery poses a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Arthritis is often a lifelong condition requiring long-term treatment. An infection may be "cured" by treatment and the person may be able to return to normal activities right away. Cancer may result in death if treatment is not successful.

How is the condition monitored?

Monitoring is related to the cause of the pain. For example, those with nerve damage from diabetes need to check their blood sugar levels often. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.