Schedule An Appointment

Symptom Checker

Leg Pain Without an Injury

Leg pain without an injury is discomfort in the hip, thigh, knee, lower leg, ankle or foot when no clear accident caused it.

Activity, muscle overuse, growing pains and minor inflammation are common causes. Infection, joint problems, nerve conditions and other medical problems can also cause leg pain.

Call a nurse All symptoms

AAP Guide to Leg Pain Without an Injury

The AAP guide below explains what can be normal and which leg symptoms need an evaluation.

AAP Symptom CheckerLeg pain

If the Symptom Checker does not appear here

It is the American Academy of Pediatrics’ own tool and it loads from their site, so a lost connection or a content blocker leaves this space empty. Open it on HealthyChildren.org with the button below, or call your office and a nurse will answer.

Open on HealthyChildren.org

Symptom CheckerLeg pain New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Pain is consistently on one side or in one exact spot.
  • Your child limps or avoids putting weight on the leg.
  • Swelling, redness or fever develops.
  • Pain repeatedly wakes your child or continues during the day.
  • Your child develops weakness or numbness.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child suddenly cannot walk because of weakness or severe illness.
  • The leg loses normal color or circulation.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on knocks, pain and injuries

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms