Limp

Description

An unsteady walk that can be caused by pain, weakness or injury to the leg.

Self-care

To protect the injured leg, you may need to use crutches or a cane when walking. Rest. Ice the painful area. Compress the area with an elastic bandage. Elevate the limb with a pillow. Take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) for pain.

When to seek immediate medical care

Seek emergency help if:

• The limp is associated with significant trauma or injury to the leg.
• The limp is due to muscle weakness, instability, numbness or tingling, or fever.
• The pain is constant, severe, comes on fast or wakes a person up at night.
• The affected leg can barely move or stretch in the usual direction.

When to make a doctor's appointment

See a healthcare professional if:

• A toddler or young child refuses to walk or stand.
• The limp lasts longer than a week and does not get better on its own with self-care.
• The limp limits a person's usual activities.