Symptom guide
Leg Pain and Numbness
Pain, numbness, or a tingling sensation that travels into one or both legs. Patients may describe it as an electric shock, burning, or a "dead leg" feeling, often worse when sitting or standing for long periods.
When to seek emergency care
- Sudden loss of bowel or bladder control (seek emergency care immediately)
- Rapidly worsening leg weakness
- Numbness in the groin or inner thighs (saddle anesthesia)
- Severe pain following trauma or a fall
Conditions commonly associated with this symptom
Patients describing leg pain and numbness are commonly evaluated for these conditions. Only a clinician can determine which applies to you.
Which specialist typically evaluates this
The right provider depends on your specific situation. These are the specialties that commonly evaluate leg pain and numbness.
Frequently asked questions
- What conditions are commonly associated with leg pain and numbness?
- Sciatica, herniated disc, lumbar spinal stenosis, and lumbar radiculopathy are among the conditions commonly associated with leg pain and numbness.
- Which specialist commonly evaluates leg pain that travels down the leg?
- Physiatrists, orthopedic spine surgeons, neurosurgeons, and pain management specialists commonly evaluate radiating leg pain, often starting with a physiatrist or PM&R physician.
- When should leg pain be treated as urgent?
- Leg pain accompanied by loss of bowel or bladder control, rapidly progressive weakness, or saddle numbness should be evaluated in an emergency setting immediately.
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