Numerous conditions can cause lower leg and foot pain. According to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, the lower legs and feet are important for standing and ambulation or walking, and leg and foot problems can be caused by traumatic injury, repetitive overuse or an underlying medical condition. Although many lower leg and feet conditions respond well to conservative care, medical intervention may be required in certain cases.
Shin Splints
Shin splints can cause pain in the lower leg and foot. According to the Mayo Clinic website, shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, are a common running-related injury. Shin splints refers to pain along the tibia, or shin bone, which is the larger of the two bones in the lower leg. The Mayo Clinic website states that most cases of shin splints can be successfully treated using conservative care methods, such as rest, ice, wearing proper footwear and modifying exercise routines to prevent the recurrence of shin splints. Common symptoms associated with shin splints include tenderness, soreness or pain along the inside aspect of the shin, along with mild swelling in the affected area. According to the Mayo Clinic website, shin splints may initially cause an exerciser or runner to stop performing her activity and may be episodic. However, shin splint-related pain may progress until it's a continuous pain in the lower leg.
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome can cause pain in the lower leg and foot. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that compartment syndrome is a painful condition that manifests when pressure within the muscles rises to dangerous levels. Increased pressure within the muscle can restrict blood flow, which limits the amount of nutrients and oxygen that reach nerve and muscle cells. According to the AAOS, compartment syndrome can be either acute or chronic. Acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency, whereas chronic compartment syndrome is typically not a medical emergency. One of the most common locations for compartment syndrome is the front compartment of the shank or lower leg. Possible causes of compartment syndrome include the following: fractures, significant muscle bruises, crush injuries, anabolic steroid use or bandages that constrict body parts.
Buerger's Disease
Buerger's disease can cause pain in the lower leg and foot. According to the Vascular Disease Foundation---an organization dedicated to reducing death and disability from vascular diseases and improving vascular health---Buerger's disease, also known as thromboangiitis obliterans, is a rare condition characterized by inflammation of a person's small and medium arteries and veins. The VDF states that Buerger's disease affects approximately 12 out of every 100,000 North Americans. Common symptoms associated with Buerger's disease include the following: numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, pain at rest and during exercise, and sores that take a long time to heal. According to the Vasculitis Foundation---an international organization that supports and empowers vasculitis patients through education, awareness and research---Buerger's disease is most common in males between the ages of 20 and 40.
