ARM OR LEG (LIMB) PAIN  

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Symptom Definition

• Pains in the arms or legs.
• The pain is not due to a known injury.

Causes

• Main Causes: muscle spasms and strained muscles from overuse (e.g., excessive throwing and jumping).
• Brief pains (1 to 15 minutes) are usually due to muscle spasms.  Foot or calf muscles are especially prone to cramps that awaken from sleep.
• Continuous acute pains (hours to 3 days) are usually due to overstrenuous activities or forgotten muscle injuries during the preceding day.
• Serious causes: fractures or swollen joints (arthritis).

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• Follows injury, see ARM OR LEG INJURY.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

See Other Topics:

• Arm or Leg Injury

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