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Leg skeletal anatomy
Leg skeletal anatomy

Leg crossing - excessive
Definition:
This symptom involves crossing the legs with unusual frequency.

Considerations:
It sometimes relates to extremity discomfort in certain positions. Social graces (such as for wearing dresses) may play a role.
Common Causes:
There are no definitive cause for habitual leg crossing. Psychological and emotional factors are sometimes the cause of habitual leg crossing.
Home Care:
Follow prescribed therapy for treating the underlying cause.
Call your health care provider if:

Call your health care provider if leg crossing is excessive, particularly if accompanied by other unexplained symptoms.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting excessive leg crossing may include:
  • Does the excessive leg crossing appear to be a habit (habitual leg crossing)?
  • Is the leg crossing unrelated to a known injury?
  • Is the leg crossing unrelated to discomfort?
  • Is the leg crossing related to anxiety or stress?
  • What other symptoms are also present?
Muscles and joints will be examined to determine if there is a physical problem. Psychological evaluation is sometimes recommended.

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to excessive leg crossing, you may want to disclose this to your other providers, as it may influence future diagnosis and treatment.
Review Date: 8/25/2001
Reviewed By: Christos Ballas, M.D. Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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