LOWER LEG SPECIALISTS

Your lower leg is everything between the knee and ankle. There are four areas in your lower leg, and each includes several muscles and a nerve, artery, and vein. Each area is surrounded by tissue known as fascia. The muscles in these compartments control the motion of your foot and ankle. Your lower leg also includes the tibia and fibula bones, and your thigh muscles attach at the top.

The leg specialists and physical therapists at New Mexico Orthopaedics can help you address your symptoms and create a treatment plan to minimize pain and long-term damage to the joints.

Lower leg injuries come in many forms. They are often painful and difficult to diagnose and treat. The lower leg is complex, so it can be difficult to pinpoint the pain you are experiencing, and many patients report overlapping symptoms. Common conditions include:

  • Calf Muscle Tear
  • Compartment Syndrome
  • Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints)
  • Muscle Cramps (Night Cramps)
  • Periostitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Shin Bone Fracture
  • Tendonitis

Diagnosis & Treatment

While lower leg pain can be common, it is tricky if there isn’t an identifiable injury. The pain can range from stabbing or burning to cramping. Identifying the pain type can help but will ultimately be diagnosed with a physical exam and imaging tests.

Treatments for lower leg pain and injuries vary depending on the condition. These can include:

  • Pain medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Injections
  • Activity modification (increasing or decreasing)
  • Surgery
  • Stretching and massage
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Blog Posts

How to Identify & Treat Calf Pain

6 Things You Should Know About Shin Splints

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13 Causes of Leg Cramps–and How To Stop Them

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