What causes stiffness, numbness, and difficulty walking in both lower limbs, and what should be done about it?
Jun 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Stiffness, numbness, and difficulty walking in both lower limbs may be caused by conditions such as lumbar disc herniation, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, peripheral neuritis, or cerebral insufficiency. It is important to visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis and to relieve discomfort through physical therapy or medication. If symptoms persist, patients should seek timely medical evaluation and treatment to avoid disease progression.
Stiffness and numbness in both lower limbs, along with difficulty walking, may be caused by lumbar disc herniation, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, peripheral neuritis, or cerebral insufficiency. It is important to seek medical evaluation at a hospital for an accurate diagnosis, and treatment such as physical therapy or medication can help relieve symptoms. Specific causes are analyzed below:
1. Lumbar Disc Herniation
This condition is often caused by degeneration of the intervertebral discs. Prolonged sitting or standing increases pressure on the discs, which may compress nerves and lead to stiffness, heaviness, and weakness in both legs. Numbness in the feet may also occur. Under medical guidance, patients may take anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications such as celecoxib capsules, meloxicam tablets, or compound chlorzoxazone tablets. Physical therapies including traction, massage, and manipulation may also be beneficial.
2. Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. It can cause impaired nerve conduction, destruction of myelin sheaths, and inflammatory responses. These changes may affect muscle control and sensation in the lower limbs, leading to stiffness, numbness, and difficulty walking. Treatment under a doctor’s supervision may include medications such as methylprednisolone tablets or azathioprine tablets.
3. Arthritis
Arthritis results from various joint disorders and may cause limited joint movement, swelling, stiffness, and muscle atrophy, resulting in heavy, stiff legs and difficulty walking. After diagnosis, patients may take acetaminophen tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release tablets, or diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.
4. Peripheral Neuritis
Peripheral neuritis refers to inflammation or damage of the peripheral nerves, which may result from infections, autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, or other causes. This inflammation disrupts normal nerve function, leading to sensory disturbances and impaired muscle control. If the nerves in the lower limbs are affected, symptoms such as numbness, stiffness, and difficulty walking may occur. Treatment may include medications such as mecobalamin capsules or vitamin B1 tablets, taken as directed by a physician.
5. Cerebral Insufficiency
Cerebral insufficiency impairs normal blood flow in the body, causing dizziness, leg numbness, and weakness. Patients may use medications such as oxiracetam capsules, piracetam tablets, or cytidine diphosphate choline sodium injection under medical supervision.
If symptoms persist, it is recommended that patients seek timely medical care to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
