Weak

Weakness refers to the lack of physical or muscular strength and the feeling of requiring extra effort to move your arms, legs, or other muscles. If muscle weakness is the result of pain, the person may be able to make muscles work, but it will hurt.

Types of Weakness

Weakness may be generalized or may affect a specific muscle or muscle group. The broad categories include:

• Neurological Weakness: This type of weakness occurs due to a problem in the nervous system. It can result from a stroke, multiple sclerosis, or a nerve injury.
• Muscular Weakness: This involves issues directly within the muscle fibers, potentially due to muscular dystrophy or other muscle diseases.
• Metabolic Weakness: Caused by systemic illnesses that affect the body's metabolism like diabetes or thyroid disorders.

Causes

Weakness can be caused by a variety of factors including:

• Physical exertion
• Lack of sleep
• Illness
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Dehydration
• Psychological conditions such as depression or anxiety

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the underlying cause of weakness involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, and sometimes, diagnostic tests. These tests might include:

• Blood tests
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed tomography (CT) scan

Treatment

Treatment for weakness depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

• Physical therapy
• Medications
• Surgery
• Nutritional supplements
• Lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity and improved diet

See Also

• Fatigue
• Muscle strength
• Physical fitness