Leg pain often starts as a problem in the lumbar spine, or low back. Watch: Sciatica Animated Video. Leg pain and numbness can be experienced in many forms—some patients describe the pain as aching, searing, throbbing, or burning, or like standing in a bucket of ice water. Pain in the legs can occur as a result of conditions that affect bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, nerves, or skin. Leg pain can occur in the foot, ankle, knee, behind the knee, thigh, down the back of the leg, or in any part of the leg. Leg Pain. Leg pain can be something as simple as a mild nagging ache that comes and goes, or it can be debilitating. Leg pain can happen at almost any time, including at night, while resting or during exercise. Leg pain. On this page; Definition; Causes; When to see a doctor; Medically reviewed on Jan 11, 2018. Definition. Leg pain can be constant or intermittent, develop suddenly or gradually, and affect your entire leg or a localized area, such as your shin or your knee. Pain or discomfort anywhere in the leg can range from a dull ache to an intense stabbing sensation. Most leg pain occurs due to overuse or minor injuries. Sciatica is a medical condition characterized by pain going down the leg from the lower back. This pain may go down the back, outside, or front of the leg. Onset is often sudden following activities like heavy lifting, though gradual onset may also occur. The pain is often described as shooting. Typically, symptoms are only on one side of the. Leg pain: Symptom — Overview covers definition, possible causes of this symptom. While leg pain is a common occurrence after an injury, pain may also occur because of medical conditions or nontraumatic reasons. Pain in the legs may be due to injury or inflammation of any of the structures that are found in the leg, including bones, joints, leg muscles, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, nerves, and skin. Leg pain is a common symptom of injury or disease affecting the blood vessels, nerves, muscles, joints, soft tissues, or bones. Many home remedies can help, but consult a doctor about sudden. If you have leg pain from cramps or overuse, take these steps first: Rest as much as possible. Elevate your leg. Apply ice for up to 15 minutes. Do this 4 times per day, more often for the first few days.