Thigh and leg pain can have many causes. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, thigh and leg pain can originate in the lower extremity, or it can be caused by structural problems in the feet or lower back. Thigh and leg pain can be sharp, achy, dull or stabbing, and the severity of thigh and leg pain can range from mild to marked.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Iliotibial band syndrome can cause pain in the thigh and leg. According to the Sports Injury Clinic, iliotibial band syndrome, also known as runner's knee or iliotibial band friction syndrome, is a condition in which the iliotibial band--a thin sheath of fibrous connective tissue that runs down the side of the thigh--becomes irritated and causes pain on the lateral or outside aspect of the knee. The iliotibial band runs from the tensor fascia latae muscle and the iliac crest in the upper thigh and pelvis to the outside of the knee. Common signs and symptoms associated with iliotibial band syndrome include pain on the lateral aspect of the knee, iliotibial band tightness, knee pain made worse by running--especially downhill running--pain with knee flexion or extension, tenderness in the affected area upon palpation, weak hip abductor muscles and gluteal trigger points. Iliotibial band syndrome is a common injury in runners.
Meralgia Paresthetica
Meralgia paresthetica can cause pain in the thigh and leg. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, or NINDS, states that meralgia paresthetica is a condition that involves burning pain, tingling and numbness on the lateral portion of the thigh. According to NINDS, meralgia paresthetica occurs when the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve--a sensory nerve--is compressed. A person with meralgia paresthetica will have an area of skin on the outer portion of the thigh that's hypersensitive and sometimes painful. Meralgia paresthetica can often be treated successfully with conservative care methods, such as wearing looser garments and shedding excess pounds. Surgical intervention for meralgia paresthetica is rarely necessary. NINDS states that the prognosis or outlook for a person with meralgia paresthetica is good.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
According to MayoClinic.com, polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition characterized by muscle pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, upper arms, hips and thighs. Polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms often manifest over a period of several days and it usually affects people older than 65. Few people younger than 50 develop the condition. MayoClinic.com states that polymyalgia rheumatica is associated with giant cell arteritis, which is a separate inflammatory condition that causes headaches, vision problems and mandibular or jaw pain, among other symptoms. Common signs and symptoms associated with polymyalgia rheumatica include upper arm tenderness, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion in the affected areas and pain or stiffness in the wrists or knees.
