What Are the Causes of Pain in the Feet & Legs?

Foot pain is a common affliction, which can be a minor annoyance or can be extremely painful. Leg pain can occur at any point between the hips and the heels and it may be mild or intense.

Common Injury Causes

• According to the Mayo Clinic, common causes of foot and leg pain include injuries such as a ruptured Achilles tendon, Achilles tendonitis or a rupture of the posterior tibial tendon. Stress fractures can cause pain in the legs or feet.

Other Common Causes

• Foot pain and leg pain can both result from gout, osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Peripheral neuropathy can contribute to pain in the feet and legs.

Foot Pain Causes

• Flat feet, foot developments such as bunions, corns or calluses and broken bones in the feet, ankles or toes can cause foot pain. People with poor-fitting shoes, ingrown toenails or poor posture can also experience pain in their feet.

Leg Pain Causes

• Leg pain can develop from bone cancer, a broken leg or deep vein thrombosis. Knee bursitis, muscle cramps or varicose vein sufferers may experience pain in the legs.

When to See a Doctor

• Patients with pain in the feet or legs should see a doctor immediately if a bone or tendon is exposed, if weight cannot be placed on the foot or leg and if pain is severe.