Connect
Seeking insight for unexplained chronic leg pain
Hi, my name is Izabella and I’m 19. For the past two years I’ve been dealing with constant, unexplained leg pain that started out of nowhere. One morning in June 2023 I woke up with pain in my leg and it never went away. There was no accident, injury, or illness before it. Since then:
- The pain is constant and gets worse with walking, standing, or even sitting
- The only relief I get is when I’m lying down or massaging it. Relief goes away when activity ends
- I also experience twitches in that leg
- The pain follows the exact line of the sciatic nerve, but a pelvic MRI showed nothing
Here’s what I’ve tried:
- Two MRIs, an ultrasound, multiple X-rays, and a nerve conduction test (all normal)
- Bunion surgery that didn’t change the pain
- Physical therapy, physiotherapy, dry needling, cupping, functional medicine, and two different medications
- Seen over eight doctors in orthopedics, neurology, rheumatology, sports medicine, pain management, PCP, endocrinology, gynecology, all with no answers
Other avenues explored:
- Ruled out PCOS/ovarian causes with imaging
- Bloodwork has always been normal
- Considered autoimmune issues such as fibromyalgia, CRPS, and MPS
- Rheumatology and orthopedics told me I likely won’t find answers with them, though neurology feels closest since symptoms are nerve-like
- I have other health conditions such as: Autism, ADHD, depression, PCOS, insulin resistance, chronic tonsillitis, frequent strep throat as a kid, anemia
How this has affected my life:
- I dropped out of cosmetology school after a month because of the pain
- I rarely leave the house and spend most of my time in bed
- I avoid driving whenever possible
- I can’t work or live independently the way I had planned at my age
- My family has spent about $120,000 searching for answers
- My depression has gotten much worse and I’ve lost the vision I once had for my future
What I’m hoping for:
- To hear from anyone who has experienced sudden, unexplained leg or limb pain like this
- To learn if anyone found answers for sciatic-type pain when imaging was normal
- To find specialists, clinics, or programs that look at cases like mine
- I’ve already applied for UNC and BWH programs and looking for other programs that could help. I live in the USA, moving to Massachusetts soon. Willing to travel for something promising
Even a small lead would mean a lot. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. 💕
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Chronic Pain Support Group.
Connect
I will be very interested to read your experience with the stimulator. Please let us know if it helps. At one point a stimulator was discussed but then later dismissed when I asked about this
When you move to Massachusetts, consider seeking care at the Brigham and woman’s hospital. They have an excellent reputation
I get my trial stimulator next week. I sure hope it helps. Will post on here how it goes.
Silly question: Have you tried ice? The only consistent relief I get is from ice. Ice wraps on my legs numb the pain and calm the nerves. I’m then good for 2-3 days before ‘something’ sets it off again and I’m back to pain.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI will let you know, I’m getting my trial stimulator next Thursday. I will wear it for a week to see if it helps. I will my experience on here..
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionIsabella,
Im an old lady , 68 yrs, had my health ruined by medical neglect. Here's my input for what its worth...im a chronic 17 year severe pain sufferer....and have done extensive research......PLS DO NOT consider a Spinal Cord Stimulator, that is not imho advisable for someone your age, with no as yet known cause for your pain. Stimulators have physical restrictions and can cause severious damage...
I just had my Stimulator removed, it has caused some bad spine and nerve complications.
I agree with the lady who references TMS and Dr Sarno.
Pls read up on his work. After a certain amount of time in pain your brain changes and pain will be your new ' normal'. But it can be unlearnt due the brain's neuroplasticity. Pls also google Joe Dispenza and stories of Transformation...these recovery stories are genuine.
I had to do a lot of research to understand/ believe the clajms of healing but once you understand we are almost 99.9% energy and NOT solid matter you should understand how healing thru self help is possible.
There is an app called Curables.. you can download for free for 30 days. You will read of a double certified Dr who realized she had TMS after 13 yrs of no help from western medicine but severe pain...she cured herself thru his work. Whilst TMS may not be your problem, I think there is a component of it to most chronic pain sufferers. Pls read about it.
Above all know unlike most of us, you are young and healing is therefore easier.
Again PLS at your tender age do not even consider the Spinal cord Stimulator, your body so far is showing no damage, no reason for it.
I hope all this helps. Pain sadly, truly all is in the Brain. Finally Nature is a huge healer... Stay busy if you can, don't dwell on pain...its hard but it makes it worse...believe you are healed and eventually it may come. Gd luck 💗 PS im mostly in bed also, very depressed, i used to be highly active....and if imaging shows no problems, like mine, its highly suggestive of Nerve Pain...if so you CAN HEAL....just unlearn your pain...it takes time.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
3 ReactionsHave you checked with your doctor about getting a CAT scan with contrast (dye) to see if you have clogged artries in the leg/s? Hope you feel better soon.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 Reactions