Can lupus cause trouble walking, balance problems, muscle weakness, and numbness in the feet and legs?
Yes, these symptoms can be related to lupus. Lupus can affect your nervous system and muscles in several ways that lead to the issues you're experiencing.
Lupus can cause peripheral neuropathy, which happens when nerves Show Full Answer
Can lupus cause trouble walking, balance problems, muscle weakness, and numbness in the feet and legs?
Yes, these symptoms can be related to lupus. Lupus can affect your nervous system and muscles in several ways that lead to the issues you're experiencing.
Lupus can cause peripheral neuropathy, which happens when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are damaged. This leads to:
* Weakness
* Numbness
* Pain, often in the hands and feet
The pain is often described as stabbing, burning, or tingling. About 21 percent of people with lupus develop nervous system complications within the first seven years of having the disease.
Lupus can also cause muscle inflammation (myositis), most commonly in the legs, upper arms, and shoulders. Muscle weakness is the most common symptom of myositis, which could contribute to your walking and balance difficulties.
Additionally, peripheral nervous system complications can cause lack of coordination, which may explain your balance problems.
It's important to talk to your rheumatologist about these symptoms right away. They can determine if lupus is the cause and develop a treatment plan. Treatment may include medications like NSAIDs or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and symptoms.
December 21, 2025
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