Leg pain can be sharp, persistent, or even disabling, but it’s rarely the whole story. At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we see leg pain as a signal often pointing to a deeper issue within the spine, nervous system, or musculoskeletal structures.
What Are Some Common Causes of Leg Pain?
Leg pain may stem from a variety of underlying issues. In our New Jersey clinics, we frequently diagnose and treat the following causes:
- Sciatica: Pressure on the sciatic nerve leading to radiating pain.
- Herniated or bulging discs: Displacing spinal nerves and causing sharp or burning discomfort.
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerve roots.
- Peripheral neuropathy: Nerve damage often associated with diabetes or injury.
- Vascular insufficiency: Poor circulation triggering pain with walking.
- Muscle or tendon injuries: Overuse or trauma to soft tissues.
- Joint degeneration: Hip or knee arthritis referring pain down the leg.