What Causes Numbness in Both Legs?

Nov 15, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I’ve been feeling unwell lately, especially experiencing persistent soreness in both legs, accompanied by intermittent numbness. Could you please explain what might be causing the numbness in both legs?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Guohua
Hello, Generally speaking, bilateral leg numbness is invariably related to the nervous system—specifically manifesting as numbness in the lower limbs. The most common underlying causes are lumbar spine disorders (e.g., lumbar disc herniation or spinal stenosis) or cervical spine disorders (e.g., cervical spondylosis). In some cases, patients may experience bilateral lower-limb numbness due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy. However, a history of diabetes can usually be identified in such cases. Moreover, diabetic peripheral neuropathy typically affects the distal extremities (e.g., toes and feet), whereas generalized numbness involving both legs is more commonly attributable to lumbar or cervical spine pathology. We hope this information is helpful. Wishing you a happy and healthy life!