Knee and Leg Pain
Knee and Leg Pain Causes and Treatment Methods
Knee and leg pain are common problems that trouble people of all ages at least once in their life. Pains may result from injuries, strain, aging, and diseases. Injuries like broken bones, torn muscles and ligaments, and etc. are causes of knee and leg pain.
Medical diseases such as arthritis and gout, and various infections are further causes of knee and leg pain.
Pain may range from mild to severe. Pains may be felt abruptly, rarely, frequently, often, and non stop. It is importance to treat the pain promptly and to get to the root cause immediately. Else, permanent damage may be expected. On the onset, pain may be bearable and negligible but if left untreated, pain may seriously debilitate and handicap a person, preventing him or her from fulfilling daily duties.
Torn ligaments can cause severe knee and leg pain. The knees have four ligaments and falling or sudden wrong movements can cause a tear. Sports athletes like football players, basketball players, tennis players, and others are prone to ligament injuries. Once an injury takes place, walking and bending the knees become excruciating. The injured must immediately rest the injured body part and immediate treatment is necessary. At times, a neglected injury often leads to repeated injuries at a later time so it is important to submit the knee and leg for prompt treatment. Stop all activities that require movement of the injured part and rest your injury well.
Tendon injuries also cause knee pain. Tendons are the parts that attach muscles to the bones. Injuries and conditions like Tendinitis surely cause pain. Athletes like runners and cyclists often suffer from this condition. One or both knees may become affected and running, jumping, and climbing may become very difficult (if not impossible) to do.
Other causes of leg pain are muscle injuries, overtraining, blood clots, bone and tissue infections, arthritis, and varicose veins. Muscle cramps are causes of leg pains. Cramps can come from dehydration, low potassium and calcium levels. Certain medications like Diuretics (causes fluid and mineral losses) also cause cramps. Fatigue and over usage also cause muscle strains and cramps.
Treatments vary. Serious problems may warrant surgery. Steps may be taken to prevent knee and leg pain. In case of injuries and prior knee and leg problems, preventive care must be followed.
Exercise properly and regularly. Always spend enough time stretching. Focus on circulatory exercises. Walk regularly. Sleep and take periodic rests sufficiently. In times of injury, prolonged rest is a must. Rest your injured body part as prescribed by the doctor. When taking medications check literature for side effects. Make sure you stay hydrated during the medication period.
Elevate your legs and knees regularly. Use pillows to prop your feet and legs on. If you are into sports, remember to avoid overtraining. Space your training and rest periods alternately. Ice packs after training and before retiring at night time may help. Massages also help relax and refresh your knees and legs after a day’s work. For minor pains and non serious ones, analgesics and pain relievers are advisable but never settle for temporary relief when serious medical treatment is needed.
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