Leg weakness consists of a loss of strength in the leg, which prevents certain movements, according to HealthHype.com. People who suffer from leg weakness may have a hard time walking or lifting a foot when the muscles connected to the feet are impaired. Nerve damage caused by various medical conditions can also cause weak and unsteady legs. Nerve tissue does not regenerate easily so leg weakness can become a permanent condition if it is caused by damaged nerves.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Gullain-Barre syndrome can cause weakness and tingling in the leg that spreads to the upper body, according to the website WomensHealth.gov. Gullain-Barre syndrome is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord with the rest of the body. The disorder consists of weakness, numbness and a tingly feeling in the legs that appear suddenly and progresses until it causes paralysis. Gullain-Barre syndrome is quite rare with approximately 1 to 2 people developing the syndrome each year, according to the MayoClinic.com. While the exact cause of disorder is unknown, it is believed that an infection such as a respiratory infection or stomach flu may contribute to weak legs.
Graves’ Disease
Graves’ disease can cause the muscles in the legs to become weak. Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder is caused by an overactive thyroid gland. This disease generally occurs when the immune system attacks the body's own cells pacing pressure on the muscle and nerves, according to Aetna InteliHealth. Graves’s disease may cause leg muscle weakness and pain when the muscles in the legs inflame prompting the white blood cells to attack parts of the muscle and the surrounding blood vessels. People with graves’ disease may experience leg muscle weakness and pain that is accompanied by cramps and stiffness, according to the website Thyroid-Info. They may also have problems climbing steps or walking for long periods of time.
Hemiplegic Migraines
Hemiplegic migraines can cause leg and muscle weakness in some people. These migraines are usually caused by an inherited gene, but they can appear in people with no family history of migraines, according to the website Dummies.com. Hemiplegic migraines consist of temporary paralysis or weakness of the arm and leg on one side of the body. People who suffer from hemiplegic migraines may experience a weak leg that is immediately followed by a severe headache. Paralysis and/or weakness usually remain once the migraine has stopped. Hemiplegic migraines usually begin during childhood and cease in adulthood.
