Differential Diagnosis for Left Leg Pain
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Musculoskeletal strain or overuse injury: This is the most common cause of leg pain, often resulting from physical activity, trauma, or repetitive strain on the muscles and tendons.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Atherosclerosis of the peripheral arteries can cause intermittent claudication, which is pain in the legs during exercise that subsides with rest.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the leg can cause pain, swelling, and warmth, often accompanied by risk factors such as recent surgery, immobilization, or cancer.
- Nerve compression or neuropathy: Compression or damage to the nerves in the leg can cause pain, numbness, and weakness, often related to conditions like sciatica or peripheral neuropathy.
- Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease can cause pain and stiffness in the hip, knee, or ankle, especially in older adults.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary embolism (if DVT is suspected): A blood clot that breaks loose and travels to the lungs can be life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Compartment syndrome: Increased pressure within a muscle compartment can cause severe pain, numbness, and weakness, often requiring emergency surgical intervention.
- Aortic dissection or aneurysm: A tear or rupture of the aorta can cause severe leg pain, often accompanied by back or abdominal pain, and requires immediate medical attention.
- Infection (cellulitis, abscess, or osteomyelitis): Bacterial or fungal infections can cause severe leg pain, swelling, and redness, often requiring prompt antibiotic treatment.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic fasciitis: A rare inflammatory condition that causes pain, swelling, and skin thickening in the affected limb.
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition characterized by severe, burning pain, often following trauma or injury.
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease: A rare condition that affects the hip joint, causing pain and limited mobility, often in children and adolescents.
- Bone tumors (e.g., osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma): Rare malignant tumors that can cause leg pain, often accompanied by swelling, weakness, or systemic symptoms.