What causes knee weakness or sudden loss of strength, and what should you do about it?
Under normal circumstances, the term "knee" refers to the knee joint. Sudden weakness or inability to exert force in the knee joint may be related to factors such as aging, muscle fatigue, meniscus injury, rheumatoid arthritis, and lumbar disc herniation. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek professional medical treatment under a doctor's guidance. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Aging
With advancing age, the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears down, and muscle strength and flexibility decline, which may lead to knee weakness or sudden inability to exert force. It is recommended to engage in moderate low-intensity exercise to strengthen muscles and reduce joint strain.
2. Muscle Fatigue
After prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity, the muscles and ligaments around the knee may become fatigued due to overuse, resulting in knee weakness or sudden loss of strength. It is advisable to maintain good exercise habits, gradually increase exercise intensity, and avoid sudden increases in load.
3. Meniscus Injury
Meniscus injuries may be caused by infection, external trauma, or other factors. Tears or damage to the meniscus can compromise the stability and support of the knee joint, leading to sensations of soreness, weakness, or sudden inability to bear weight. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as knee pain, swelling, and a locking sensation. It is recommended to use medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, celecoxib capsules, and amoxicillin capsules under a doctor's supervision.
4. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis may result from immune system dysfunction, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues of the knee joint, causing soreness, weakness, and difficulty exerting force. Symptoms may include knee swelling, pain, and morning stiffness. Treatment may include medications such as ibuprofen capsules, cefradine capsules, and aspirin enteric-coated tablets, taken as directed by a physician.
5. Lumbar Disc Herniation
Lumbar disc herniation may be associated with disc degeneration and accumulated injuries, leading to rupture of the annulus fibrosus and protrusion of the nucleus pulposus, which can irritate or compress spinal nerve roots, causing pain and numbness. This may subsequently lead to knee weakness and difficulty exerting force, often accompanied by lower back pain and sciatica. Medications such as Gentongping Granules, Yaotongning Capsules, and Duhuo Jisheng Pills may be used under medical guidance.
Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise, ensure adequate rest, and maintain a light diet, all of which can help alleviate symptoms.