What causes leg weakness and lack of strength during the recovery phase of cerebral hemorrhage?
Sep 08, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Cerebral hemorrhage usually causes damage to nerve cells in the central nervous system, preventing the brain from sending commands or sending correct signals. As a result, patients may experience leg weakness or inability to lift their legs despite no obvious physical injury. Additionally, they might develop abnormalities such as hemiplegia, speech impairment, numbness in limbs, and slurred speech.
During the recovery phase of intracerebral hemorrhage, leg weakness and lack of strength typically result from damage to the central nervous system. Specifically:
The brain functions as a high-level neural center that controls movement of the limbs and coordinates motor activities effectively. Intracerebral hemorrhage often causes injury to neurons within the central nervous system; consequently, the brain may fail to send motor commands—or may send incorrect ones—resulting in abnormal symptoms such as leg weakness and inability to lift the legs, despite the absence of overt structural damage to the lower limbs. Patients may also experience hemiplegia, language dysfunction, numbness in the legs and feet, and slurred speech.
Recovery from leg weakness during the convalescent phase of intracerebral hemorrhage generally takes a prolonged period. Under medical supervision, patients should actively engage in functional rehabilitation exercises—for example, walking frequently with assistance from family members or using a cane—to promote recovery of leg muscle strength. Additionally, neurotrophic medications may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms; commonly used agents include vitamin B1 and oryzanol.
