Exercise-induced leg pain: sifting through a broad differential.

The causes of exertional leg pain are not always easily determined but are often linked to repetitive stress. Medial tibial stress syndrome or periostitis, tibial stress fractures, deep posterior compartment syndrome, exertional compartment syndrome, fascial hernias, peripheral neuropathy, and blood vessel entrapments have characteristic signs and symptoms. A complete history and exam coupled with wise use of adjunctive investigations will lead to the correct diagnosis and treatment.