Weakness in any part of the body can have a variety of origins, and specific causes will usually dictate treatment approaches. For leg and arm weakness, muscular or nerve damage treatment may be approached with a combination of rest and exercise. In fact, physical therapy is a major factor in many treatments. More serious causes like brain illness or stroke may necessitate a strict pharmaceutical regimen or surgical intervention. Other treatments may primarily focus on assisting hindered leg and arm movement through the use of devices.
Some conditions, injuries, or toxic substances damage muscular functioning, which leads to arm and leg weakness. Injuries like broken bones or torn muscles are often treated with devices like casts or slings. Ice treatments can also help alleviate swelling that causes subsequent pain and weakness. Any potential harmful substances need to be removed from the body. In addition, anti-inflammatory corticosteroids are a common pharmaceutical option for muscle-related conditions.
Often, leg and arm weakness is due to nerve compression and damage, especially when accompanied by additional symptoms like burning or tingling. In general, bed rest is advisable for nerve injuries. Gradual and light exercise can help rehabilitate damaged areas following a proper period of rest. If damage to the spinal cord is apparent, however, surgery may be needed.
On occasion, neurological illnesses affecting the brain, such as cerebral palsy, can cause leg or arm weakness. Medications are commonplace in these problems, variable to the specific condition. Painkillers can help alleviate short-term issues, while prescription pharmaceuticals may be needed long-term.
Sudden leg and arm weakness on one side of the body can signal a serious illness like stroke. In this condition, weakness can escalate into paralysis and other indicators like vision problems, headache, or fever. Immediate medical attention is crucial if a stroke is imminent. If the stroke is due to a blood clot, medicines like tissue plasminogen activator will be administered that help dissolve the clot. Strokes and subsequent symptoms like leg and arm weakness can also be caused by internal bleeding, in which case surgery will likely be needed to correct the problem.
Any condition that causes long-term leg and arm weakness will often utilize physical therapy as a major component of treatment protocols. Physical therapy typically involves working with a physical therapist who will design a rehabilitative exercise program tailored to specific needs. Treadmill workouts may be important in leg weakness ailments, for example. Arm weakness, on the other hand, might emphasize strength training with light weights.
For individuals with severe leg and arm weakness, assistive devices may be a necessity, at least in the short-term. Walkers or wheelchairs may help if leg weakness leads to significantly impaired movement. Further, in many cases of arm pain and weakness, robotic devices help aid upper limb movements.