Leg Numbness and Weakness: When to Seek Medical Advice

Numbness and weakness in both legs?

Hello Doctor, last Tuesday after a slight stretch, I suddenly felt a bit of numbness near my left calf and the little fingers of my limbs.
A day or two later, the left calf started to hurt with a bit of numbness, and I'm not sure if it's a calf strain.
It has remained the same until now (today it felt a bit better).
The numbness near the little fingers of my limbs has improved.
However, this afternoon, I suddenly felt numbness near the knees and calves of both feet (before today, my right foot was basically normal).
When sitting, I experience a bit of weakness and a slight heavy feeling; it feels more comfortable when I stand up.
Other than that, all my limbs are normal, and I can move and exert force; my toes are the same.
I would like to ask why this is happening? Is there anything I need to pay attention to? Should I see a doctor (and which specialty should I consult)?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/11

Dr. Peng Shiwei reply Neurology

Hello, based on your symptoms, it is necessary to rule out any issues with your lower back.
However, since an online consultation cannot take into account the results of a physical examination, it is advisable to seek in-person consultation at a clinic.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2023/05/11

More Info

Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing numbness and weakness in your legs, particularly around the knees and calves, along with some discomfort in your little toes. This situation can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical advice.

Numbness and weakness in the legs can arise from various conditions, including nerve compression, muscle strain, or circulatory issues. Given that you mentioned a recent stretching incident, it is possible that you may have strained a muscle or irritated a nerve. However, the fact that the symptoms have progressed to involve both legs and include sensations of heaviness and weakness warrants further investigation.

Possible Causes
1. Nerve Compression or Irritation: Conditions such as sciatica or herniated discs can lead to nerve compression, resulting in numbness and weakness in the legs. If a nerve root is compressed in the lower back, it can cause symptoms that radiate down the legs.

2. Muscle Strain: A muscle strain in the calf or thigh can lead to localized pain and discomfort. If the strain is significant, it might also affect your ability to move or put weight on the affected leg.

3. Circulatory Issues: Conditions affecting blood flow, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can also cause leg symptoms. This is particularly concerning if you have risk factors such as prolonged immobility, recent surgery, or a history of clotting disorders.

4. Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition, often related to diabetes or other metabolic disorders, can cause numbness and weakness in the extremities.

When to Seek Medical Advice
Given the progression of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Here are some guidelines on when to see a doctor:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the numbness and weakness do not improve or worsen over a few days, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, changes in color of the legs, or difficulty walking, you should seek immediate medical attention.

- Neurological Symptoms: If you notice any changes in bowel or bladder control, or if you experience weakness that affects your ability to walk, these could be signs of a more serious condition requiring urgent care.

Which Specialist to See
For your symptoms, it would be appropriate to start with a visit to a primary care physician or a neurologist. They can perform a thorough examination, assess your symptoms, and determine if further imaging studies (like an MRI or CT scan) or nerve conduction studies are necessary. If a musculoskeletal issue is suspected, an orthopedic specialist may also be consulted.

Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms may be related to a minor strain or irritation, the progression and nature of your symptoms suggest that a medical evaluation is warranted. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent potential complications and facilitate a quicker recovery. Make sure to monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical advice as soon as possible.

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