Calf pain for over 10 M goes to thighs and back as pain intensifys Had MRI CAT Scan Nothing !
My calfs really hurt to where I am in bed on heat for 14 hours a day. They burn and feel like they have been asleep. The pain gets so bad it radiates to my thighs and lower back. I am about ready to loose my mind ! I can't take pain meds. Don't want to either. I just want relief and want to know what is wrong with me.
Much to the dismay of patients and doctors, pain cannot be seen on a special image like CT or MRI. Focusing on the history and physical examination is key. Here, the burning pain with associated tingling is the key to a diagnosis. Neuropathic pain, possibly complex regional pain syndrome (previously known as RSD), is the most likely candidate causing the bilateral (both-sided) leg pain. Because the symptoms are bilateral, the nerves involved lie in the brain or spinal cord (central nervous system). In a process called central sensitization, the central "alarm system" has become too sensitive to normal, non-threatening situations like walking, sitting, sleeping. These abnormal nerve signals, like a faulty alarm, cause burning pain, numbness, tingling, skin discoloration, itchiness, swelling, or hyper-sensitivity.
Anyone with nerve pain should see a neurologist or pain specialist who understands nerve pain (neuropathic pain) and have a nerve test. Another great source of information is a book called "Explain Pain" by David Butler (a leading expert in nerve pain). This book is available at www.optp.com.
There are many non-opioid (opioids are traditional "pain medications"). A spinal cord stimulator is another option for intractable leg pain. The right specialist will be able to guide anyone with pain towards relief.
Dr. Christina Lasich, MD
- Thank you for your input
- Ranked Helpful (5)
- Report Abuse
