Via practica 2/2016
„Doc, my legs hurt!“ Differencial diagnosis of pain in lower extremities
Two distinct clinical forms of pain with different pathophysiological mechanisms need to be considered. We can perceive pain both in positive and negative ways. The positive role of pain lies in its protective function as a defense of the human organism against damage. This protective function concerns especially the acute pain. The chronic pains are the outcome of serious illnesses, the cause of which needs to be diagnosed. Differential diagnostics will help us to make exact diagnosis. Only then, the adequate treatment can follow – either within the frame of recommended procedures or standards.
Keywords: pain, lower extremity, differential diagnosis
