Ankle weights can be beneficial for leg strengthening. In an article published in the August 2007 "National Strength and Conditioning Association's Performance Training Journal," researchers found use of light ankle weights while performing plyometric exercises improved squat jump and maximal anaerobic cycle performance, but not aerobic power. However, Mayo Clinic expert Edward R. Laskowski, M.D., indicates use of ankle weights during aerobic exercise may result in leg muscle strain and possible injury.
Leg Nerves
The thigh and ankle have many nerves that provide feeling to the upper and lower leg. The femoral nerve helps the thigh muscles to straighten the leg. The peroneal nerve innervates the thigh and compartments of the lower leg and foot. Ankle weights may cause pressure to the peroneal or femoral nerve when exercising and lead to nerve pinching or entrapment. Nerve entrapment can result in numbness or tingling in the muscles.
Neuropathy
E-Medicine reports femoral neuropathy, a condition of the nerve, is caused when the femoral nerve is compressed. Exercises that flex the hip joint while lying on your back may result in excessive pressure on the nerve. Outer thigh leg lifts and hip rotation may cause this nerve to overstretch. Ankle weight exercises that involve straight leg lifts and rotational movements may aggravate the femoral nerve and result in thigh strain and muscle weakness.
Injury
Compartment syndrome injury can occur when circulation is compromised to the muscles and nerves, particularly in the lower leg, as summarized by SportsInjuryBulletin.com. Leg pain associated with compartment syndrome is generally present during exercise and disappears when activity is stopped. Ankle weights may place too much pressure on the lower leg, decrease circulation, and possibly lead to compartment injury symptoms, such as pain, tingling, and muscle weakness.
Evaluation
If numbness, tingling, or leg pain occurs when using ankle weights, you should discontinue the activity. Mayo Clinic recommends medical evaluation for a pinched nerve. Your doctor should ask questions about your symptoms, any medical conditions you have and any health conditions among your family members. A nerve conduction study, MRI, or electromyography may be advised for further evaluation of your symptoms.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Ankle Weights for Fitness Walkers: Good Idea?
- Medline Plus: Femoral Nerve Dysfunction
- Mayo Clinic: Pinched Nerve
- Sports Injury Bulletin: Compartment Syndrome: What It Is, What to Look Out For and How It Is Treated
- E-Medicine: Femoral Neuropathy
- "NCSA's Performance Training Journal"; Addition of a Light External Load Does Not Improve Sprint Performance in Middle-Aged Men and Women: G. Gregory Haff; August 2007
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