Weakness in Legs: When Standing Becomes Impossible

Leg weakness ~ inability to stand?

Hello, my mother was born in 1938 (in her seventies)! She is approximately 162 cm tall and weighs 80 kg.
Today, when I returned to my hometown, I discovered that my mother is unable to stand or walk.
Since she lives with a family member, we initially thought it was just temporary leg weakness.
However, it has now been over a week.
My mother says that although she feels her legs and body are disconnected, she can lift her legs about 50-60 cm high, but she cannot stand or walk at all! Before this incident, she climbed to the second floor to take a nap without falling or feeling unwell, but after getting up, she couldn't sit up without assistance from family members.
Currently, she is resting in her bedroom on the second floor.
Although she can now get up by herself, when she puts her feet down, she is unable to exert any strength (to stand)! Since she cannot go out to seek medical attention from the second floor, her current condition is that she still cannot walk even with family support.
Therefore, I am reaching out to inquire about possible causes! After researching, I found that most responses suggest seeking medical attention.
I also want to take my mother to see a doctor, but her current condition prevents her from standing or walking! I look forward to your reply! I will also explore whether there are any relevant telemedicine options available.
Thank you!

Yu Jie, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/11

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Yu-Jie,
You mentioned that "she is unable to go out for medical treatment on the second floor and currently cannot walk even with family support." The symptoms you described may suggest a lumbar compression fracture.
I recommend requesting assistance from a rehabilitation bus or ambulance personnel.
A specialized stretcher can be used to move the patient downstairs.
If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a neurosurgery or orthopedic outpatient clinic for evaluation to rule out a lumbar compression fracture and to assess for potential osteoporosis.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I welcome further discussion.
Wishing you and your mother good health, safety, and happiness.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Jiang Jun-Yi
Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2023/12/11

More Info

It sounds like your mother is experiencing significant weakness in her legs, which is preventing her from standing or walking. Given her age and the sudden onset of these symptoms, it is crucial to approach this situation with care and urgency. Here are some potential causes and recommendations based on her symptoms:

Possible Causes of Leg Weakness
1. Neurological Issues: Conditions such as a stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or other neurological disorders can lead to sudden weakness in the legs. If there was any change in her speech, vision, or coordination, this could be a sign of a neurological event.

2. Musculoskeletal Problems: Weakness could stem from issues related to the muscles, joints, or bones. Conditions like arthritis, muscle strains, or even fractures (which may not be obvious without imaging) could contribute to her inability to stand.

3. Circulatory Issues: Poor circulation or blood clots can lead to weakness in the legs. If she has a history of vascular problems, this could be a contributing factor.

4. Metabolic or Endocrine Issues: Conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders can also lead to muscle weakness. If she has any underlying health conditions, they may need to be evaluated.

5. Deconditioning: If she has been less active for a period, her muscles may have weakened due to lack of use. This is particularly relevant if she has been sedentary or has had limited mobility recently.

Recommendations
1. Seek Medical Attention: It is essential to get her evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. If she cannot go to a clinic, consider arranging for a home visit by a doctor or a telemedicine consultation. Many healthcare providers now offer virtual appointments, which could be a viable option given her current inability to travel.

2. Physical Therapy: Once she is evaluated, a physical therapist can help develop a tailored exercise program to improve her strength and mobility. They can also provide strategies for safely getting up and moving around.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on her symptoms. If she experiences any new symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, or changes in consciousness, seek emergency medical care immediately.

4. Home Care: Ensure she has a safe environment at home. Remove any tripping hazards, and consider using assistive devices like a walker or cane to help her move around safely once she is able.

5. Nutrition and Hydration: Ensure she is eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated, as proper nutrition can support muscle function and overall health.

6. Gradual Activity: If she is cleared by a healthcare provider, encourage her to engage in gentle movements or stretches to maintain some level of activity without overexerting herself.

Conclusion
Your mother's situation is concerning, and while there are various potential causes for her leg weakness, the most important step is to seek medical evaluation. Early intervention can make a significant difference in her recovery and quality of life. Please prioritize getting her the care she needs, whether through in-person visits or telehealth options.

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