What Causes Weakness In The Legs And Unsteady Gait?

Posted on Sat, 31 Dec 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 31 Dec 2016 Answered on

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : For about a year I have experienced weakness in the legs and unsteadiness when walking. The doctors don't seem to be able the find a cause. Any suggestions?

Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Read below.

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

Given the fact that there are no lesions in the brain which justify the symptoms then I believe it should be looked further down in the nervous system. An involvement of the peripheral nerves or of the spinal cord may also manifest with weakness of the limbs and balance issues.

So I believe that it should be investigated in that direction through nerve conduction studies and a spinal MRI. If changes indicating neuropathy are found then some blood tests to search for the cause will be needed.

I remain at your disposal for other questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar