After a long day of work or running errands, many people find themselves saying, “Help! My legs hurt at the end of the day.” While occasional discomfort is common, persistent leg pain can signal underlying issues, particularly related to vascular health.
At Vascular Surgery Associates in Los Angeles and Santa Monica, we understand the struggles that leg pain can bring, and we are here to help. Our specialists investigate the potential causes of leg pain, identify vascular conditions that may be contributing factors and explain how our team can assist you through both non-surgical and surgical treatment options.
Common Causes of Leg Pain
A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that 36.5% of U.S. adults have lower limb pain, with the highest percentage being those 65 and older. Various factors can contribute to leg pain, particularly at the end of a busy day. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Muscle Fatigue: After prolonged physical exertion, such as standing or walking, leg muscles can become fatigued, leading to discomfort and soreness.
- Injury: Sprains, strains or other minor injuries can cause persistent pain. Overuse injuries are also common and can develop gradually.
- Poor Circulation: Blood flow issues can lead to pain due to conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), which involves the narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the limbs. As a result, inadequate blood flow can lead to cramping and pain, especially during activity.
- Varicose Veins: These swollen, twisted veins are often more than just a cosmetic concern. They can lead to aching pain, particularly after prolonged periods of standing. Varicose veins result from weakened vein walls and valves, causing blood to pool in the legs.
- Nerve Issues: Conditions such as sciatica or peripheral neuropathy can also contribute to leg pain. Sciatica, which is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, leads to radiating pain down the leg.
- Other Medical Conditions: Various medical conditions, including arthritis, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and diabetes, can cause leg pain as a symptom.
Vascular Conditions to Consider
If you experience persistent leg pain that limits your daily activities, it is essential to consider potential vascular conditions. Here are some of the most common issues:
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): As mentioned earlier, PAD occurs when arteries become narrowed, limiting blood flow to the limbs. Symptoms often include leg cramps, numbness and pain that worsens with activity.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition occurs when vein valves fail to function correctly, causing blood to backflow and pool in the legs. Symptoms may include swelling, heaviness and leg pain that worsens with prolonged standing.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This serious condition involves a blood clot forming in a deep vein, usually in the leg. DVT can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly and typically presents as swelling, warmth and pain in the affected leg.
To determine the underlying cause of your discomfort, it’s important to consult with a vascular specialist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation.
How Vascular Surgery Associates Can Help
At Vascular Surgery Associates, our experienced team understands the complexities of leg pain and its causes. We offer a range of diagnostic services to accurately identify the root cause of your pain.
Once we have a diagnosis, we can discuss treatment options tailored to your needs. Here’s how we can help:
Non-Surgical Treatments
We offer a range of non-surgical and cosmetic treatment options that include:
- Lifestyle Modifications: Simple changes can make a significant difference. We provide guidance on diet, exercise and weight management strategies to improve circulation and reduce leg pain.
- Compression Therapy: Wearing compression stockings can offer relief by improving blood flow and reducing swelling. Our specialists can recommend the right type of compression wear for your condition.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, and we can prescribe medications that might alleviate symptoms related to underlying vascular issues.
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical options are insufficient, we offer advanced surgical solutions tailored to your specific condition:
- Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): This minimally invasive procedure uses laser energy to close off varicose veins, redirecting blood flow to healthier vessels.
- Angioplasty and Stenting: For those suffering from PAD, angioplasty can open blocked arteries, and placing a stent helps keep them open.
- Vein Stripping: In cases of severe varicose veins, vein stripping may be necessary to completely remove problematic veins.
- Surgery for DVT: If a blood clot is present, procedures can be utilized to remove the clot or place filters in the veins to prevent future occurrences.
FAQs About Leg Pain
What should I do if my leg pain is severe?
If you experience severe leg pain, especially if accompanied by swelling, warmth or redness, seek medical attention immediately, as it may indicate a DVT.
Can lifestyle changes help reduce leg pain?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and proper hydration can significantly alleviate leg pain.
How can I tell if my leg pain is vascular-related?
Symptoms such as cramping during activity, leg swelling and pain that improves with rest might indicate a vascular condition. A consultation with a specialist is advised.
Are there risks associated with leg pain treatments?
As with any medical treatment, there are risks. Our team will discuss the potential risks and benefits of any treatment plan before proceeding.
How do I know if I need surgery for my leg pain?
Surgery is typically considered when other treatments have failed to provide relief or if there are significant vascular issues identified during evaluation.
Los Angeles Vascular Leg Pain Relief
If you find yourself repeatedly saying, “Help! My legs hurt at the end of the day,” don’t let it go unaddressed. At Vascular Surgery Associates, we provide expert care and a comprehensive approach to managing your leg pain. Whether you require non-surgical interventions or surgical solutions, our skilled team in Los Angeles and Santa Monica is ready to help you reclaim your comfort and quality of life.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
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