Experiencing weakness in your legs can be worrying. However, in many cases, leg weakness is temporary and improves with a bit of rest or minor treatment. But sometimes, leg weakness can point to an underlying medical issue that needs evaluation by a doctor. Here is a quick overview of when to seek medical care for leg weakness.
What causes temporary leg weakness?
Some common causes of temporary leg weakness include:
- Overexertion – Working your leg muscles too hard with exercise, sports or physical labor can strain muscles and cause weakness lasting a couple days.
- Poor circulation – Sitting or standing for long periods can reduce blood flow to the legs and lead to weakness or numbness that resolves once you move around.
- Lack of activity – A sedentary lifestyle can cause leg muscles to lose conditioning and feel weak when you try to use them.
- Injury – Sprains, strains or bruises anywhere from your lower back to your feet can make your legs feel weak when putting weight on them.
- Pregnancy – Pressure from the uterus on nerves and increased weight often leads to leg fatigue and weakness.
- Dehydration – Reduced fluid intake can cause muscle cramps and weakness throughout the body, including the legs.
With rest and recovery, this type of temporary leg weakness typically improves within a few days up to a couple weeks at most.
When should you see a doctor for leg weakness?
Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience:
- Leg weakness that comes on suddenly and severely
- Numbness, tingling or loss of coordination in your legs
- Leg weakness that progressively worsens over time
- Weakness mainly on one side or more in one leg than the other
- Leg weakness that does not improve with rest
Seeking prompt medical care is especially important if leg weakness is accompanied by:
- Bowel or bladder problems
- Back pain
- Difficulty walking
- Falling
What conditions can cause leg weakness?
Some health problems that can lead to leg weakness include:
Nerve damage or compression
- Herniated disc
- Pinched nerve in the spine
- Sciatica
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
Muscle or joint disorders
- Arthritis
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Fibromyalgia
Vascular diseases
- Peripheral artery disease
- Blood clots in the legs
Infections or inflammatory causes
- Guillain-Barre syndrome
- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
- Myasthenia gravis
Injury
- Fracture
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Dislocated knee or hip
- Torn ligament or tendon
How is leg weakness evaluated?
To identify the underlying cause of leg weakness, the doctor will begin with a physical exam of your legs and back. They may check:
- Muscle strength
- Muscle size
- Reflexes
- Sensation
- Range of motion
- Balance
- Gait
You’ll also be asked about your medical history. Be prepared to describe:
- When weakness began
- Which leg(s) are affected
- If the weakness comes and goes
- If it’s progressively worsening
- What makes it better or worse
- Associated symptoms like numbness/tingling
- Any related injury, trauma or strain
- Existing health conditions
The evaluation may involve diagnostic tests such as:
- Blood tests
- Nerve conduction study
- Electromyography
- MRI of the spine
- CT scan
- X-rays
How is leg weakness treated?
Treatment focuses on the underlying cause of leg weakness and may include:
- Rest and reduced activity to allow strained muscles or nerves to heal
- Physical therapy exercises to rebuild leg strength and range of motion
- Orthotics or braces to support weakened joints
- Medications like NSAIDs, steroids or muscle relaxers to reduce inflammation and pain
- Surgery for structural problems like herniated discs or knee injuries
Lifestyle measures can also help manage leg weakness:
- Exercise within limits of ability to improve conditioning
- Proper stretching before exercise or exertion
- Massage to increase circulation
- Balanced diet to nourish muscles and nerves
- Stress management techniques
- Adequate hydration
- Assistive devices like canes or walkers to prevent falls
When to seek emergency treatment
Seek emergency care if you experience sudden leg weakness along with:
- Paralysis or inability to move the legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness in the groin or inner thighs
These symptoms can indicate a spinal injury or a problem like a stroke, tumor or blood clot requiring rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
While temporary leg weakness usually isn’t a major concern, prolonged or worsening weakness should be evaluated by a doctor. Swift diagnosis of the underlying cause is key to relieving symptoms and regaining strength and mobility. Don’t delay seeking medical advice if weakness interferes with your daily activities or quality of life. With proper treatment, most people with leg weakness can expect significant improvement or complete resolution of symptoms.