Leg or arm pain can be an indication of a number of possible conditions. The following list of symptoms will help to narrow down the cause.
Symptoms
Symptoms
- Toddler holds arm against side
- The elbow is tender and hurts upon moving
- Toddler has had arm pulled on or has fallen on an outstretched arm
Likely Cause Pulled elbow (nursemaid's elbow)
Symptoms
- Sudden pain with movement
- Swelling or stiffening at site
- Limping
Likely Cause Sprain or strain
Symptoms
- Trauma with severe pain in one spot
- Possibly heard a snapping sound
- Pain increases with movement
- Limb may seem bent out of position
Likely Cause Broken bone or fracture
Symptom
- Limb or joint pain after recent viral infection, especially chicken pox or hepatitis
- Can find no other cause for pain
Likely Cause Post-viral arthritis
Symptom
- Joint pain after a recent strep infection
Likely Cause Post-strep arthritis
Symptom
- Sudden onset of pain in hip or knee
- Limited range of motion
- Pain with movement
- Fever
Likely Cause Joint infection (septic arthritis)
Symptoms
- Pain in a limb
- Tenderness
- Refusal to use limb
- Fever
Likely Cause Bone infection (osteomyelitis)
Symptoms
- Unexplained bruises, abrasions, burns, broken bones, black eyes, cuts, bite marks, or other injuries
- Injuries appear repeatedly
Likely Cause Child abuse
Symptoms
- Stiffness, swelling, and pain in joints that lasts for at least six weeks
- Pain is worse in the morning
Likely Cause Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
