Intense physical exertion and circulation problems are a few of the most typical causes of leg weakness. Nonetheless, this symptom can even be the result of significant neurological, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal conditions. Here we inform you more.
After we discuss weaknesswe consult with a decrease or partial lack of strength. On this sense, individuals with leg weakness will not be in a position to move the muscles of the lower limbs, even when they fight.
This term is usually confused with fatigue, tiredness, and drowsiness.
Essentially the most common causes of leg weakness
Leg weakness hinders the performance of each day activities and hinders the mobility of those affected. It’s also one in all the principal reasons for falls and injuries in older adults. Amongst probably the most common causes are the next.
1. High-intensity physical activity
High-level physical exertion and overtraining are frequent causes of weakness within the legsespecially in individuals with little experience. Normally, this symptom appears after training sessions and should be accompanied by muscle tremors.
Similarly, it’s common for weakness to reappear after a few days, related to pain and muscle tension. On this case, it’s the results of the recovery means of the distended and worn tissue. Typically, people improve spontaneously after 2 to 4 days.
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2. Peripheral arterial disease
This can be a common circulatory problem that affects 15-20% of individuals over 70 years of agein keeping with studies. This disease results from a decrease within the caliber of the arteries with reduced blood flow to the extremities.
Muscle weakness and numbness within the legs are typical manifestations of this condition. Similarly, patients often manifest pain within the thighs or calves after walking or climbing stairs.
Other symptoms include the next:
- A chilly sensation within the legs
- Color changes within the lower limbs
- Weak pulse within the legs or feet
- Shiny skin
Atherosclerosis is the principal perpetrator of peripheral arterial disease. A physical examination, ankle-brachial index, a Doppler ultrasound, and angiography are the methods used for diagnosis. Treatment is geared toward relieving symptoms and halting progression.
3. Venous insufficiency
This can be a vascular disorder characterised by difficulty within the return of blood from the legs to the center as a consequence of incompetent valves within the veins. Over time, the veins grow to be distended and retain blood within the lower limbs, especially when standing.
This condition is 5 times more common in women than in men, in keeping with research. Skin changes resembling swelling, dryness, redness, varicose veins, and sores which might be slow to shut are frequently seen.
Weakness within the legs, cramping, itching, and pain at rest are amongst the everyday symptoms of the condition. Doppler ultrasound is the diagnostic test of selection. The therapeutic plan seeks to enhance venous blood mobilization and institute healthy habits.
4. Peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a neurological condition brought on by damage to the nerve pathways liable for the transmission of data between the brain and the remaining of the body.
Typically, people manifest a stabbing or burning pain within the legs or hands. Similarly, it’s possible to search out the next symptoms:
- Numbness and tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Hypersensitivity to the touch
- Coordination and gait problems
Likewise, the principal causes of this syndrome are traumatic injuries, diabetes, infections, and exposure to toxic substances. Treatment includes the usage of medications to cut back symptoms, nerve stimulation, physical therapy, and surgery.
5. A herniated disc
A herniated disc is a protrusion of the nucleus pulposus through a weakened a part of the intervertebral discspositioned within the spine. This condition can occur at any level of the back, being more frequent within the lumbar area.
Studies estimate that disc herniations produce 2% of the cases of dorsolumbar pain in people between 30 and 50 years old. The feeling of weakness within the legs is a manifestation of lumbar hernias. The weakness often promotes falls and stumbling and makes it difficult to get off the bed.
Tingling, burning, and pain within the buttocks and lower back are also common. The treatment plan includes the use of medicine, physical therapy, and surgical correction, depending on severity.
6. Cerebral vascular disease (CVD)
CVD is a disorder characterised by a sudden lack of neurological function resulting from a disturbance in blood flow to the brain as a consequence of ischemia or hemorrhage, as defined by studies. In most individuals, it causes weakness on one side of the body and altered sensation.
Affected patients may additionally experience slurred speech, confusion, blurred vision, dizziness, and impaired balance. This condition requires emergency medical management, so it’s crucial to acknowledge it early and seek help as soon as possible.
7. Guillain-Barré Syndrome
That is an autoimmune disorder by which the body attacks the nerve pathways. Some research states that this syndrome presents itself with symmetrical, progressive, ascending muscle weakness. As well as, it’s often accompanied by decreased or abolished reflexes.
Currently, there’s no definitive cure for this condition. Nonetheless, plasmapheresis and administration of immunoglobulins can alleviate symptoms and reduce progression.
8. Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of autoimmune origin by which there may be the destruction of the nerve fibers of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, brainstem, spinal cord, and cranial nerves, with an affinity for the optic nerve.
This disorder can debut with different symptoms, depending on the anatomical area affected. Essentially the most common manifestations include the next:
- Muscle weakness and fatigue
- Cognitive impairment
- Memory loss
- Gait disturbances
- Tremors and muscle spasms
Treatment of MS is predicated on the usage of corticosteroids during disease flares. Similarly, immunomodulators and physiotherapy may be used to enhance long-term symptomatology.
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9. Compression of the spinal cord
Occasionally, certain traumas and disorders produce compression of the spinal cord structures. Hematomas, abscesses, and tumors are a few of the principal causes of this condition. The person manifests back pain, tingling, and weakness within the legs.
Studies estimate that spinal cord compression occurs in 5% of cancer patients and even maintains an incidence of 10% in individuals with spinal metastases. Essentially the most commonly associated cancers include multiple myeloma, lymphoma, and lung cancer.
Leg weakness: A symptom that shouldn’t be taken flippantly
Leg weakness is a manifestation present in an unlimited variety of disorders and diseases. It’s related to physical exertion and poor circulation. Nonetheless, it also warns of several underlying neurological and vascular conditions that require attention as soon as possible.
Don’t hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist for those who notice a rapid progression of weakness or persistence of weakness. As well as, the presence of pain increases the necessity for skilled attention.
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