Page last updated:
1st June 2023

Three-Point Leg Check: leg pain diagnosis

We know that your legs and feet probably haven’t been top of your list recently, but it’s time to give them some attention. Even the smallest change to the way they look or feel can be a sign of something more serious.

That’s why we’re asking everyone to check their legs and feet and to speak up if things aren’t looking or feeling right.

Three-Point Leg Check: leg pain diagnosis - three legs

SKIN 01 – Check the skin on your legs and feet

Check the skin on your legs and feet for any change in colour or texture, including dry, scaly or red skin, or skin that’s hot to touch. A cut, blister or insect bite that hasn’t healed after two weeks is not normal and needs to be seen by a nurse or podiatrist. Make an appointment at your GP surgery.

SHAPE 02 – Check the shape of your legs and feet

Swollen legs or feet are your body’s way of saying that something isn’t right. This might be because of an injury or it could be a sign that your veins or lymphatic system aren’t working as well as they should. If your legs or feet are uncomfortably swollen, they need to be seen by a nurse or podiatrist. Make an appointment at your GP surgery.

FEEL 02 – Check how your legs and feet feel

It’s normal to feel occasional cramp in your legs when walking but if it happens a lot, it could be a sign that your body’s circulatory system isn’t working as well as it should. Tired, throbbing and painful legs can also be a sign that something’s not  right – ask your pharmacist for advice  or make an appointment at your GP surgery.

Don’t ignore even the smallest change to the skin, shape or feel of your legs and feet.

Julia's story
Read Julia's leg ulcer story – “An operation on my broken leg left me with a wound that wouldn’t heal”

Tell us what you think

If there’s anything you want to ask us or tell us, whether it’s a suggestion about our website, a complaint, or a compliment, drop us a line at
support@legsmatter.org

Other support

NHS Choices the official NHS website, which provides vital information and support about leg and foot signs and other symptoms.

Contact details
Call 111 - for non-emergency medical advice
Find out more on the NHS Choices website

Foot in Diabetes UK Part of Diabetesonthenet.com Foot in Diabetes UK is an organisation dedicated to continuous improvement in the care and management of people with diabetic foot problems.

Contact details
020 3735 8244
info@diabetesonthenet.com
Find out more on the Foot in Diabetes UK website

The Lindsay Leg Club Foundation Promoting and supporting community based treatment, health promotion, education and ongoing care for people who are experiencing leg-related problems - including leg ulcers and other wound care issues.

Contact details
01473 749565
lynn.bullock@legclubfoundation.com
Find out more on the Lindsay Leg Club Foundation website

Lymphoedema Support Network (LSN) is a national UK charity which provides information and support to people with lymphoedema.

Contact details
020 7351 0990
admin@lsn.org.uk
Find out more on the Lymphoedema Support Network website

Tell us what you think

If there’s anything you want to ask us or tell us, whether it’s a suggestion about our website, a complaint, or a compliment, drop us a line at
support@legsmatter.org