Leg Pain and Numbness After Knee Manipulation: What to Do? - Neurology

More Info

---

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the leg pain and numbness you are experiencing after knee manipulation. It sounds like you have been through quite a journey with your knee issues, and I understand how frustrating it can be to deal with persistent discomfort after what was intended to be a corrective procedure.

Based on your description, the symptoms you are experiencing—specifically the pain on the outer sides of your thigh and calf, along with numbness in your foot—could potentially be related to several factors. While it is possible that these symptoms could be linked to issues with the sciatic nerve, they could also stem from other causes, such as muscle tightness, ligament strain, or even changes in your biomechanics following the manipulation.

1. Sciatic Nerve Involvement: The sciatic nerve runs from your lower back down through your legs. If there is any irritation or compression of this nerve, it can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the leg. This is often referred to as sciatica. However, the specific location of your pain and numbness may suggest that other structures are involved as well.

2. Muscle and Soft Tissue Issues: After a manipulation procedure, it is common for surrounding muscles and soft tissues to become tight or strained. This can lead to discomfort and altered movement patterns, which may contribute to your symptoms. The outer thigh and calf pain you describe could be due to overcompensation or muscle imbalances that developed as a result of the initial knee issue and subsequent treatment.

3. Biomechanical Changes: Following any knee manipulation, there may be changes in how you walk or move, which can lead to additional strain on other parts of your leg. If your knee is not functioning optimally, it can affect your gait and lead to pain in the thigh and calf.

Given the duration of your symptoms (six months), it would be advisable to seek further evaluation. Here are some steps you can take:
- Consult a Physical Therapist: A physical therapist can assess your movement patterns, strength, and flexibility. They can provide targeted exercises to help alleviate pain, improve function, and address any muscle imbalances.

- Consider Seeing an Orthopedic Specialist: If you haven't already, it may be beneficial to consult with an orthopedic surgeon or a sports medicine specialist who can evaluate your knee and leg function. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to rule out any structural issues that may not have been addressed during your initial treatment.

- Explore Neurological Evaluation: If your symptoms persist or worsen, a consultation with a neurologist may be warranted to assess for any nerve-related issues.

- Pain Management: In the meantime, consider using ice or heat therapy to manage pain, and over-the-counter pain relievers may help alleviate discomfort. However, be sure to discuss any medication use with your healthcare provider.

In summary, while your symptoms could potentially be related to sciatic nerve involvement, they may also be due to muscle tightness or biomechanical changes following your knee manipulation. A thorough evaluation by a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist will help clarify the underlying cause and guide you toward appropriate treatment options. Remember to listen to your body and avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms until you receive further guidance. I wish you the best in your recovery and hope you can return to your beloved hiking activities soon!