Persistent Swelling in the Left Leg for 10 Months
At 29 years old, standing at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing 220 pounds, I maintain a relatively active lifestyle, largely due to my work as a barber where I'm on my feet all day. Ten months prior, after returning from a game of pickleball, I observed some unusual swelling in the area around my left hamstring. There was no accompanying pain; it was merely a noticeable swelling. I applied the RICE method in hopes of alleviating the issue, but the swelling didn't subside as I had anticipated. After a month, I sought my doctor's insight and started physical therapy aimed at my knee, but unfortunately, it yielded no improvement. I received multiple steroid injections, but they also failed to produce results. Despite undergoing X-rays and an MRI, both tests showed no discernible problems. As time passed, I began to experience swelling extending to my calf, ankle, thigh, and the left side of my back. Consequently, I was referred to an orthopedic specialist who suspects a possible torn hip labrum, even though I do not connect with the typical symptoms associated with that condition. After enduring nearly a year of imbalance and feeling physically restricted from engaging in the activities I love, I find myself thoroughly frustrated. I'm now considering whether to invest $1200 in a hip MRI or to explore other potential causes such as a clot or lymphedema that might explain my ongoing issues.
Answers (1)
8/16/2025, 3:11:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling frustrated with the persistent swelling in your left leg, especially after trying various treatments and seeing multiple specialists without improvement. The ongoing swelling could indeed have several possible causes, and it’s important to consider each one carefully before deciding on further steps, including the MRI.
Key Points:
- Potential Causes: The swelling could be linked to several conditions, including venous issues (like a clot), lymphedema, or even complications from a past injury.
- Current Options: Given the range of possibilities and the history, further imaging may help clarify the situation, but it’s essential to prioritize the most likely conditions based on your symptoms and previous tests.
Explanation:
Persistent leg swelling, especially if it's expanding to other areas, can sometimes relate to circulation issues or lymphatic drainage problems. While a torn hip labrum could potentially cause asymmetrical swelling if there’s associated compensation in your movement patterns, your lack of typical symptoms may suggest it’s not the primary issue.
Next Steps:
- Monitor and Document Symptoms: Track when the swelling worsens or improves, noting any activities or positions that exacerbate or relieve it. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider.
- Consider a Venous Doppler Ultrasound: This non-invasive test focuses specifically on blood flow in your veins and can help rule out issues like deep vein thrombosis (clots) or venous insufficiency, which are critical to identify.
- Explore Lymphedema Testing: Discuss with your doctor the possibility of lymphedema, especially if the swelling is persistent and accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or fullness.
- Clinical Re-evaluation: If you haven’t already, revisit your primary care doctor or a vascular specialist. Bring your symptom diary and discuss whether further imaging (like the MRI) is warranted in light of these potential conditions.
While considering the hip MRI, weigh it against these other tests, which might provide more immediate clarity on whether there’s a serious issue such as a clot that needs addressing right away.
Take care of yourself, and know that getting a clear answer can sometimes take time—and that’s okay.
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