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What Does Heaviness In Legs While Walking Suggest?
Question: Don't feel bad, my legs just feel different, kind of like they feel heavy when I walk. I am 65 years old and have great health.
Brief Answer:
2 possible causes
Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am Dr Mittal
I have read your query.
Its a short query and leaves a lot of details wanting.
Do you have backache?
Do you have pain in legs?
Does the discomfort settle when you stop walking?
Do you have any comorbidities?
I am assuming you dont have any of these. If you do please do let me know.
There are 2 possible causes of your symptoms
1. It could be neurological. There may be some reason why you are developing neuropathy. It needs a nerve conduction test and an MRI LS spine to rule these out. If found, a prescription of pregabalin/gabapentin helps.
2. It could be vascular. This needs a arteriovenous doppler study of both the lower legs and abdominal aorta. The treatment could be dependant on the extent of the damage- from simple anticoagulants to surgical repair may be needed.
Also, take plenty of fluids before walking and during the day. walking produces lactic acid. if it is not easily washed out, heaviness may result.
I hope that the information helps.
Please feel free to contact us for more information
Best of luck
Dr Mittal
2 possible causes
Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am Dr Mittal
I have read your query.
Its a short query and leaves a lot of details wanting.
Do you have backache?
Do you have pain in legs?
Does the discomfort settle when you stop walking?
Do you have any comorbidities?
I am assuming you dont have any of these. If you do please do let me know.
There are 2 possible causes of your symptoms
1. It could be neurological. There may be some reason why you are developing neuropathy. It needs a nerve conduction test and an MRI LS spine to rule these out. If found, a prescription of pregabalin/gabapentin helps.
2. It could be vascular. This needs a arteriovenous doppler study of both the lower legs and abdominal aorta. The treatment could be dependant on the extent of the damage- from simple anticoagulants to surgical repair may be needed.
Also, take plenty of fluids before walking and during the day. walking produces lactic acid. if it is not easily washed out, heaviness may result.
I hope that the information helps.
Please feel free to contact us for more information
Best of luck
Dr Mittal
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Answered by
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