Weak legs

[Conster]

Hi does anyone else have trouble walking due to weakness in the legs it's starting to Be a problem don't know if it's ra or just old age I have always been very active and had a physical job but now if I walk more than half a mile lm struggling

[HeadInASpin]

Hi Conster. It's frustrating when your abilities seem to fade and it's very difficult to understand why but it might be worth mentioning it to the rheumy team or your GP. They will be able to ask you the right questions and check your bloods. The fact that you can, and still want to, walk half a mile is really positive. Maybe little and often is going to be a better regime for you moving forward but it's worth getting checked all the same.

[Conster in reply to HeadInASpin]

Thank you

[Scottishlad]

Get this checked out. If you have previously been active and there's been a change it really needs to be investigated. Please go to your GP.

[wilbertjellyfish]

Definitely think you should get this investigated.

[Runrig01]

Agree with others, that if this is a sudden change, it need’s investigating. If your on steroids they can cause weakness in the muscles, known as myopathy. I do suffer with this, due to years of steroids. I would speak to gp and rheumatologist. It is great that you still want to do these walks, and I hope they find a solution for you.

[Conster in reply to Runrig01]

Thank you

[stbernhard]

Hi Conster,If you've always been active, then don't put it down to old age. Your not old anyway! Do the half a mile you can without struggling, maybe twice a day? Definitely have a chat with a GP and your rheumatology team. I've had a similar problem to yours for several months now. From 20/25 miles walking a week to sometimes only 10 minutes a day. No energy. But I do walk wherever I have a bit of juice in the battery.

Good luck!!!

[Conster in reply to stbernhard]

Thanks for the advice

[Conster in reply to stbernhard]

Thanks for the advice

[katieoxo60]

Hi Conster, it is difficult to come to terms with loss of ability, I have had arthritis for many years especially in my hands and feet , but since my knee went I find it difficult to do even more things. So I would say it is a slow process that creeps up on us. I used to walk everywhere and my job required being on my feet many hours a day so I appreciate what you are saying. Keep as active as you can walking wise as it helps keep the lungs etc fit too. Even if only small distances. Take care as falls can set you back if your balance is off too. Best Wishes

[Conster in reply to katieoxo60]

Thank you

[oldtimer2]

I found that it was due to Polymyalgia Rheumatica affecting my lower limbs (as well as my shoulder girdle).

[Hisue]

Yes, I asked NP about this weakness. Phys Therapist is currently helping me rebuild muscle loss, due to RA (inactivity & fatigue ).

[Maggsie]

Are you on Statins at all. I had real problems with weak limbs after being prescribed statins. I stopped taking them and eventually the strength returned.

[rabbits65 in reply to Maggsie]

That’s interesting Maggsie what you say about statins. I am new to taking statins after delaying taking them for nearly two years , then a doctor pointed out to me two months ago how important it was to start the statins as my cholesterol is a bit high. I am 71 hrs too. I am hoping that all my pains are due to arthritis and not the statins, it’s difficult to be absolutely sure exactly what are side affects of drugs and what are the arthritis pains. You could try a different statin, that’s what some people do, if one doesn’t suit they try another. But I am sick of medicines ..

[Maggsie in reply to rabbits65]

I tried 2 statins and gave up with both. The pain and weakness I felt was definitely more muscle/tendon driven rather than joint pain. It is a recognised side effect of statins. My cholesterol was not particularly high and I'm trying to keep it under control by diet and exercise.

[rabbits65 in reply to Maggsie]

I know I agree with you. I haven’t exactly felt well since taking statins , but put it down to a chesty cough. I just don’t know what to think or do. The last doctor I spoke to about it tried to convince me they are a life saver. I do exercise and I go to slimming world , I am about a stone overweight.

[weatherwax]

Hi Conster, I have RA and have noticed since I retired that my muscles have got weaker and weaker. I found that it was possible I have RA-cachexia which according to research can affect up to 2/3 of RA sufferers. It is rarely tested for, probably there is no medical treatment for it, and also as we all get older we can suffer with sarcopenia a different thing but just as annoying for weak muscles. To build up my muscles again I was advised the best way was to do resistance training 2 or 3 times a week and also to continue walking as much as I was able. I was also advised a healthy Mediterranean style diet seemed to help people. I started this exercise and although it takes time my muscles do seem to be gaining strength and I have increased the distance I can walk from about 200 yards to 1/2 mile and have therefore been spurred on to continue. Resistance exercise is considered one of the best ways of reversing loss of muscle mass as you age and benefits both men and women.

I would advise you to discuss building up the correct exercise with your doctor or consultant before starting in case there is any other cause for your muscle weakness which needs different treatment There's nothing to stop you eating healthily though if you don't already!

I am nearly 73 and female and was able to join an exercise group that does both resistance exercise and cardio-vascular as well which I thoroughly enjoy as we all have a laugh as well.

Good luck and hope you can improve things as I have.

[Conster in reply to weatherwax]

Thank you so much for your advice

[rabbits65]

Hello, Do you have any back trouble, back pain etc. sometimes I have trouble with my legs, but I won’t give in. I walk my two poodles every day however I feel. Usually what you might find is if your muscles get weak they feel heavy, even more reason to not give up walking. I am one year younger than you, that’s all. Please take care, your be alright.