Sign 4: Weakness in Legs
Leg weakness, a lesser-known symptom of multiple myeloma, can be particularly distressing. It’s not just a fleeting sensation; it’s a tangible decline in muscle strength, often affecting daily activities. Walking, climbing stairs, or even standing might become laborious tasks.
The genesis of this weakness can be traced back to the spinal cord. As myeloma cells proliferate, they can exert pressure on the spinal cord. This compression, in turn, affects nerve functions. Nerves, the body’s electrical wiring, carry messages between the brain and muscles. When they’re compromised, muscle coordination and strength wane.
Complicating matters is the fact that bone lesions, commonly seen in multiple myeloma, can further exacerbate spinal cord pressure. The vertebrae, already weakened by the disease, might fracture, intensifying the compression.
To add to the challenges, numbness often accompanies the weakness. This duo of symptoms can drastically affect balance, increasing the risk of falls. For the elderly, this becomes especially concerning, given the potential for additional injuries. (4)
