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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Weakness, Loss Of Balance And Numbness In The Legs?

My legs are becoming weaker everyday. My balance is bad and I fall frequently. The bottoms of both feet are numb. My PCP says it won t get better but I feel it may if I saw a neurologist. The problems came on rather suddenly, almost overnight. I ve always been a very active 82-year-old ( since my last birthday that is) and I need to get better asap! Could years of amitriptyline or propranolol use be part of the problem?
Wed, 18 Jan 2017
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

It would be best, as your PCP states, to see a neurologist for an assessment of the neurological system to see if a cause can be found. Weakness and loss of balance can be due to different possible causes that would require an in depth history, physical examination and investigations. Physical examination of the general system and nervous system would be needed.Investigations would rule out anemia, infection, low vitamin levels, chronic diseases of the liver or kidney. Amitriptyline is used to treat abnormal sensations so it is not likely the cause. Propanolol is rarely associated with paresthesia (abnormal sensations) so the potential is there. A thorough assessment would identify the cause.

I hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James
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What Causes Weakness, Loss Of Balance And Numbness In The Legs?

Hi, It would be best, as your PCP states, to see a neurologist for an assessment of the neurological system to see if a cause can be found. Weakness and loss of balance can be due to different possible causes that would require an in depth history, physical examination and investigations. Physical examination of the general system and nervous system would be needed.Investigations would rule out anemia, infection, low vitamin levels, chronic diseases of the liver or kidney. Amitriptyline is used to treat abnormal sensations so it is not likely the cause. Propanolol is rarely associated with paresthesia (abnormal sensations) so the potential is there. A thorough assessment would identify the cause. I hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Michelle Gibson James