Intense physical exercise and circulation problems are the most common causes of leg weakness. However, this symptom can also result from severe neurological, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal conditions. Next, we tell you more.
We refer to the decrease or partial loss of strength when we talk about weakness. In this sense, people with leg weakness cannot move the muscles of the lower limbs, even when they try.
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The most common causes of leg weakness
Weakness in the legs makes it difficult to carry out daily activities and hinders the motor skills of the affected people. In addition, it is one of the main reasons for falls and injuries in older adults. Among the most common causes, we can count the following.
1. High-intensity physical activity
High-level physical exercise and overtraining are frequent causes of leg weakness, especially in people with little experience. This symptom generally appears after training sessions and can be accompanied by muscle tremors.
Similarly, it is common for weakness to reappear after a couple of days, associated with pain and muscle tension. In this case, it is the result of the recovery process of the swollen and lean tissue. In most cases, people get better independently after 2 to 4 days.
2. Peripheral arterial disease
According to studies, it is a frequent circulatory problem that affects 15-20% of people over 70 years of age. This disease results from a decrease in the caliber of the arteries with reduced blood flow to the extremities.
Muscle weakness and numbness in the legs are typical manifestations of this condition. Similarly, patients often report thigh or calve pain after walking or climbing stairs.
Other symptoms include the following:
- Cold sensation in the leg.
- Color changes in the lower limbs.
- Weak pulse in the legs or feet.
- Shiny skin.
Atherosclerosis is primarily responsible for peripheral arterial disease. Physical examination, ankle-brachial index, Doppler ultrasound, and angiography are the methods used for diagnosis. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and halting progression.
3. Venous insufficiency
This is a vascular disorder characterized by difficulty returning blood from the legs to the heart due to incompetence of the valves in the veins. Over time, the veins become distended and retain blood in the lower limbs, especially when standing.
According to research, this condition is five times more common in women than men. In general, there are changes in the skin, such as swelling, dryness, redness, varicose veins, and wounds that are slow to close.
Leg weakness, cramps, itching, and pain at rest are typical symptoms of the condition. Doppler ultrasound is the diagnostic test of choice. The therapeutic plan seeks to improve the mobilization of venous blood and establish healthy habits.
4. Peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a neurological condition caused by damage to the nerve pathways responsible for transmitting information between the brain and the rest of the body.
In most cases, people experience shooting or burning pain in their legs or hands. In the same way, it is possible to find the following symptoms:
- Numbness and tingling.
- Muscular weakness.
- Hypersensitivity to touch.
- Coordination and gait problems.
5. Herniated disc
A herniated disc is a protrusion of the nucleus pulposus through a weakened part of the intervertebral discs located in the spine. This condition can occur at any back level, being more frequent in the lower back.
Studies estimate that herniated discs cause 2% of cases of low back pain in people between 30 and 50 years of age. The feeling of weakness in the legs is a manifestation of lumbar hernias. Weakness usually encourages falls and trips, making it difficult to get out of bed.
Tingling, burning, and pain in the buttocks and lower back are familiar. The treatment plan includes the use of drugs, physical therapy, and surgical correction, depending on the severity.
6. Cerebrovascular disease (CVD)
CVD is a disorder characterized by a sudden loss of neurological functions due to an alteration in the brain’s blood flow due to ischemia or hemorrhage, as defined by studies. In most people, it produces weakness and altered sensation on one side of the body.
Affected patients may also experience slurred speech, confusion, blurred vision, dizziness, and balance disturbances. This condition requires an emergency medical approach, so it is crucial to recognize it early and seek help as soon as possible.
7. Guillain-Barré syndrome
It is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks the nerve pathways. Some investigations affirm that this syndrome presents symmetrical, progressive, and ascending muscle weakness. In addition, it is usually accompanied by decreased or abolished reflexes.
Currently, there is no definitive cure for this condition. However, plasmapheresis and immunoglobulin administration can alleviate symptoms and reduce progression.
8. Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of autoimmune origin in which the nerve fibers of the central nervous system are destroyed. It affects the brain, brainstem, spinal cord, and cranial nerves, with an affinity for the optic nerve.
Depending on the anatomical area affected, this disorder can debut with different symptoms. The most common manifestations include the following:
- Muscle weakness and fatigue.
- Cognitive decline.
- Loss of memory.
- Gait changes.
- Tremors and muscle spasms.
The treatment of MS is based on using corticosteroids during flare-ups of the disease. Similarly, immunomodulators and physiotherapy can be used to improve symptoms in the long term.
9. Spinal cord compression
Occasionally, specific traumas and disorders cause compression of the structures of the spinal cord. Bruises, abscesses, and tumors are some of the leading causes of this condition. The person manifests back pain, tingling, and weakness in the legs.
Studies estimate that spinal cord compression manifests in 5% of cancer patients and even maintains an incidence of 10% in people with spinal cord metastases. The most associated types of cancer include multiple myeloma, lymphoma, and lung cancer.
A symptom not to be taken lightly
Leg weakness is a manifestation present in a vast number of disorders and diseases. It is associated with physical exercise and poor circulation. However, it also warns of several underlying neurological and vascular conditions that require attention as soon as possible.
Do not hesitate to consult a specialist if you notice a rapid progression of weakness or its persistence. In addition, the presence of pain increases the need for professional care.