Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Leg Pain?

Which specialty should I see?

Hello Dr.
Fang: On October 10th, I felt heaviness in my right calf while walking.
On October 11th, I experienced pain while walking, which felt similar to muscle soreness after exercise.
However, there was no pain when I pressed on the calf muscles, and I am unable to stand on my toes.
Prior to October 10th, I had not engaged in any exercise or twisted my ankle, and my daily routine remained unchanged.
I am unsure why I am experiencing these symptoms.
Which specialty should I consult? Please help me with this.
Thank you!

Ping Ping, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/10/11

Dr. Fang Sijie reply Family Medicine

Dear Ping Ping,
Based on the symptoms you described, I personally believe you should consult a neurologist for further examination to identify the underlying cause.

Reply Date: 2003/10/11

More Info

Based on your description of leg pain, it sounds like you may be experiencing symptoms that could be related to a variety of underlying conditions. Given that you have not engaged in any recent physical activity or experienced any trauma, it is important to consider several potential causes for your symptoms, including muscle strain, nerve issues, or vascular problems.

The first step in addressing your leg pain is to determine the appropriate medical specialty to consult. Given your symptoms of heaviness in the calf, pain while walking, and difficulty with toe raises, I would recommend seeing a physician who specializes in either orthopedics or neurology. An orthopedic specialist can evaluate for musculoskeletal issues, such as muscle strains or tears, while a neurologist can assess for nerve-related problems that may be causing weakness or pain in your leg.

Additionally, if there are concerns about circulation or vascular issues, a vascular surgeon may also be appropriate. Conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or peripheral artery disease (PAD) can present with similar symptoms and require prompt evaluation and treatment.

When you visit the doctor, be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail, including when they started, any changes in your daily activities, and any other relevant medical history. The physician may perform a physical examination, which could include checking your range of motion, strength, and sensation in your leg. They may also recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out any structural issues.

In the meantime, it may be helpful to rest your leg and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce any inflammation, and over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may provide some relief. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

If your symptoms worsen or if you experience additional symptoms such as swelling, redness, or warmth in the leg, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.

In summary, I recommend that you see an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist for your leg pain. They will be able to conduct a thorough evaluation and determine the best course of action for your symptoms. Early intervention is key to managing pain and preventing any potential complications.

Similar Q&A

Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Right Hip Pain?

Recently, I have noticed pain in the right lower back. When I twist my body to the right, I feel tightness in the front of my right thigh. I tried to lift my right leg, but I can't raise it as high as my left leg, and I experience a sharp, shooting pain that travels from my ...

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question, there's no need to be overly anxious. Your description does not allow for an immediate conclusion. Please seek consultation with an orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible; an on-site examination should provide clarity. Wishing you all the...

Which Medical Specialty Should I Choose for My Vascular Tumor?

Hello Dr. Lin: I have had a vascular tumor since childhood, but over the past year, I have started to frequently experience discomfort in my legs, including occasional pain and soreness (which I did not experience before). During this time, I have consulted with specialists in su...

Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
According to the user's description, they have had a hemangioma since childhood, but the size and location have not been specified. They often experience unexplained pain in their legs, but the specific location has not been described. Generally, hemangiomas are less likely ...

Which Specialist to See for Leg Pain and Cramps?

You should see an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist for your symptoms.

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine
Hello! It is recommended to consult with a family medicine clinic first. Thank you!

Which Specialist Should Your Friend See for Persistent Leg Pain?

Hello: First, let me tell you about my friend's symptoms: 1. He has persistent thigh pain (the pain extends from the thigh down to the knee). 2. He cannot sit because the thigh becomes sore, tingling, and painful. 3. He can walk, but he has a limp; at least the pain while wa...

Dr. Zhou Lizhi reply Orthopedics
Dear user, thank you for your detailed description of the symptoms. I will reorganize the issues as follows: Firstly, the full name of orthopedics is "Orthopedic Surgery," which encompasses issues related to bones, muscles, and joints. Therefore, the patient's co...