Leg pain can be a sign of many different health problems, but just to name a few, they may also be due to heart disease, arthritis, and gout. Individuals who are overweight are more susceptible to developing these problems. In some cases, the pain may even be caused by cancer or diabetes.
In order to determine the cause of your leg pains, it is crucial that you visit podiatrists in Maryville, IL, for an accurate diagnosis based on your symptoms and personal medical history.
Here are certain kinds of diseases that can cause leg pain.
- Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition characterized by joint pain and stiffness. It is commonly caused by wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in your joints. Those who are affected with mild arthritis may find relief from their symptoms with simple over-the-counter medications, including acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).
- Cancer
Cancer is a disease that originates from the cells of your body. In most cases, cancer will start in a part of the body that is not directly related to your legs, such as the breast or lung. The early stages of cancer are generally painless since there is no growth. As it progresses and spreads, however, it can cause chronic pain and other complications.
- Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that is caused by the body’s inability to properly produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels in humans and other animals. In some cases, the pancreas does not secrete enough insulin to control your blood sugar effectively, and this can result in high levels of glucose, which can then cause serious damage to many regions of your body, including the legs.
- Gout
Gout is an arthritic condition that is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints. Uric acid is a natural waste product that builds up in your blood because of the breakdown of certain medications, foods, or drinks. In most cases, gout will not cause pain unless there is a sudden rise in the production of uric acid. This can cause acute inflammatory reactions in your body and result in pain.
- Charcot disease
Charcot disease is a form of neuropathy that can cause pain and weakness in your legs. This condition is caused by the compression or injury of the nerves that carry signals from your spine to your limbs.
