Weakness of thigh muscles can sometimes be irritating to live with, as it can stop you from carrying out normal and seemingly simple activities. There are several causes of this condition, and depending on the factors involved, there are different ways to treat the problem. Below, find a few of the most successful management techniques.
Regular Exercise
It is important for you to ensure that you have enough exercise to maintain and improve muscle strength. This might be a daunting task to those who suffer from severe muscle pain and weakness in their thighs; however, keep in mind that even gentle exercise can be very effective. Some ideas for beneficial exercises for thighs include:
- Walking. Even as little as a 30-minute walk three to five times a week will help to tone your legs and decrease thigh weakness.
- Swimming. Many women enjoy a short swim in the mornings or evening. You should go at our own pace, and you will soon see the benefits in leg strength.
- Yoga. This practice allows you to develop strength while usually being gentle enough to avoid straining and damaging muscles.
Adequate Rest
After undertaking any rigorous activity, it is important to allow your thigh muscles to repair themselves by taking a sufficient amount of rest. If you know you are prone to thigh muscle pain and weakness, you should take extra care to do this. After exercising, you should ensure that you stretch properly, and then try to sit or lie down for an extended period of time. While sleeping, your body will undergo a process of self-repair, but as women get older, this may not be enough to properly preserve your muscles, and so it is advisable to avoid additional strenuous activity and relax in the bath or while reading a book as well.
Balanced Diet
It is commonly known that the body must be subjected to a well-balanced diet in order to maintain good health and functionality, but the reasons why are often forgotten. To avoid thigh muscle deterioration and weakness, you should consume:
- Protein. Your body converts protein into amino acids, which it needs to build muscles. This is the reason why many bodybuilders and sportspeople drink protein shakes as part of their workout regime. Good sources of protein include meat, tofu, fish, cheese, and eggs.
- Omega-3. This has many health benefits, particularly in older women. Studies have shown that it can assist the body in its interaction with amino acids, and therefore enhance muscle health. Fatty fish such as mackerel or salmon are full of omega-3.
- Vitamins. Muscles need vitamins B, C, D and E to stay strong and healthy. The can be obtained by ensuring you eat a healthy amount of fruits and vegetables. Vitamin D is an unusual case - your body makes it when your skin is exposed to sunlight.
Stay Hydrated
In addition to consuming a healthy diet, it is important that you also have an adequate daily intake of fluids; the recommended amount is the equivalent of six to eight glasses. Staying well-hydrated is important for avoiding thigh muscle weakness because water impacts the activity of the cells within the muscle. Without enough fluid, the muscles can break down, which will stop them from growing and maintaining strength.
Muscle pain and weakness in thighs is often uncomfortable and annoying, but occasionally, it can also cause concern. To limit the effects or even avoid this condition, the above advice should be heeded. If you find; however, that even after these suggestions you still suffer from weakness in your thighs, you should talk to your doctor to explore other causes and treatments.
