Muscle weakness can occur all over the body or just in one area, such as an arm, hand or one side of the body.
Muscle weakness is most noticeable if a particular area of the body is affected, especially if the loss of muscle strength is abrupt. Brain doctors are routinely consulted to evaluate the extent of a person’s muscle weakness and in the diagnosis of the cause of muscle weakness.
When your muscles cannot exert a normal force to perform a certain movement or task, there is likely a neurological cause for your weakness.
The most common cause of abrupt muscle weakness or acute weakness is stroke. Women are more likely to have a stroke than men.
Medical conditions such as chronic pain, thyroid problems, electrolyte imbalances, anemia, influenza virus and aging can cause the type of weakness where you feel weak but your muscle function is actually normal.
Neurological conditions such as ALS or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal cord injury and MS or multiple sclerosis are other common causes of muscle dysfunction and weakness.
When muscles are generally weak, you can play a part in ” reconditioning your muscles” and improving your strength. Your brain doctor can help.