"Is Leg Pain, Soreness, and Swelling a Sign of Rheumatism?"
There are various causes of leg pain, soreness, and swelling, not all of which are attributed to rheumatism. For example, muscle spasms due to cold exposure in the legs can cause pain; intense exercise or overexertion can also lead to these symptoms; and conditions such as lumbar disc herniation exhibit similar manifestations.
Non-Rheumatic Conditions
1. Muscle Spasms: If the legs have been exposed to cold recently, it may cause local muscle spasms resulting in pain.
2. Intense Exercise or Overexertion: Excessive physical activity or heavy labor can lead to the accumulation of lactic acid in the legs, causing leg pain, soreness, and swelling.
3. Lumbar Disc Herniation: When a lumbar disc herniates backward and compresses nerve roots, it can cause radiating pain in the lower extremities, accompanied by numbness in severe cases. Some patients may experience leg pain and soreness.
Possible Rheumatic Conditions
If one has been exposed to damp environments for an extended period and frequently experiences discomfort in joint areas, such as swelling, stiffness, and pain, it may be related to rheumatoid arthritis. It is recommended to promptly visit a hospital, undergo relevant examinations under medical guidance, and actively seek treatment based on the diagnosis.
Apart from the relatively common causes mentioned above, there are other potential diseases, including osteoporosis, bone hyperplasia, fractures, and soft tissue injuries. It is impossible to determine whether rheumatism is the cause solely based on leg pain and soreness.