The evaluation of a leg strain begins with a history and physical examination of the lower leg.

Physical findings in someone with a leg strain may include:

• Difficulty walking
• Leg pain:
• Worse with movement of the hip, knee or ankle
• Leg bruise
• Leg tenderness
• Leg swelling (unilateral)

Tests are not usually required to make the diagnosis of leg strain. X-rays may be necessary to exclude injury to the bones.

Tests that may be used to evaluate severe leg injuries include:

• Bone x-rays of the tibia and fibula
• Bone x-rays of the femur
• Pelvis x-ray
• To look for a fracture of the pelvis where the leg muscles attach to the bone

For more information:

• Quadriceps strain evaluation
• Hamstring strain evaluation
• Calf strain evaluation
• Groin strain evaluation