What is the name of House’s cane-holding leg condition in House M.D.?

House’s cane-holding leg condition in House M.D. is an infarction of the quadriceps muscle. The infarction damaged muscle tissue in his right thigh before the series begins.

House initially received a misdiagnosis and underwent a bypass procedure after the infarction. Because treatment was delayed, he suffered permanent damage, leaving him with chronic pain and an altered gait. He uses a cane and relies on pain medication, especially Vicodin, throughout much of the series.

The condition is often loosely described as a leg injury, but the show gives it a more specific medical explanation. It is not presented as a broken bone or a neurological disease. House’s disability and pain are important parts of his character, though the series also explores how his medication dependence affects his work and relationships.