Leg Tenderness
August 3rd, 2017
Overview
How to Assess
- Palpate the lower limb, and especially the calves. Ask the patient whether any area is tender to touch.
Causes of Leg Tenderness
- Vascular - deep venous thrombosis, superficial thrombophlebitis
- Infection - cellulitis, lymphangitis, necrotising fasciitis
- Musculoskeletal - trauma, arthritis, gout
- Malignancy
- Compartment syndrome (following crush injury, burns, haemorrhage, leg ischaemia)
Interpretation
- Red, swollen, tender calfSuggestive of cellulitis or deep venous thrombosis
- Tenderness and erythema tracking along the course of a superficial veinSuggestive of superficial thrombophlebitis
- Pulselessness, pallor, paraesthesia, pain, poikilothermiaSigns of compartment syndrome
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