Navigating Ongoing Leg Issues: My Journey and Concerns
Greetings, Reddit community. I’m a 29-year-old woman facing ongoing challenges, especially with my legs. A significant concern is my history of breaking or severely injuring both of my feet several times. The recovery process has been lengthy, spanning over a year, during which I relied heavily on air casts. Moreover, I possess a considerable degree of flexibility, making me susceptible to hyperextension. Lately, my knees have been particularly troublesome. Initially, I attributed these issues to the chilly weather, but with upcoming diagnostic appointments, I’m beginning to consider that there could be more underlying factors at play. Allow me to elaborate on my symptoms further: Often, the backs of my thighs feel as though I’ve been in a perpetual squat, and when I rise, there’s a disconcerting chance of experiencing what I refer to as "noodle legs." It’s as if my legs struggle to support my weight, with my knees sometimes feeling like they might bend in unnatural directions or give way entirely. Finding the right words to articulate this is proving challenging. My healthcare provider suspects I may have conditions like POTS and EDS, among other possibilities. I’m feeling anxious about potential complications or injuries as I await my appointments. (I apologize for any typographical errors – I’m autistic and sometimes find it difficult to express my thoughts in writing. Thank you for your patience and any insights you might offer.)
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 5:50:38 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant challenges with your leg health, which can be both frustrating and scary, especially when combined with your history of injuries. You have raised important concerns about your symptoms, including feeling weak in your legs, issues with your knees, and potential conditions like POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome). Prioritizing your comfort and understanding the underlying issues is crucial as you navigate this journey.
Understanding Your Symptoms:
- The feelings you've described, such as "noodle legs" and instability in your knees, could be linked to structural issues due to prior injuries and your flexibility, which you mentioned makes you susceptible to hyperextension. Conditions like EDS can contribute to joint instability and pain.
- Additionally, POTS can cause symptoms related to blood flow regulation, which may result in feelings of weakness and fatigue in your legs, particularly when moving from sitting to standing.
Next Steps to Consider:
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Journaling Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of when you experience these symptoms, their duration, and any activities that seem to worsen or improve them. This can provide valuable information for your healthcare providers.
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Managing Pain and Discomfort:
- Implement gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for your legs, focusing on stability. Yoga or physical therapy can offer structured approaches tailored to your needs.
- Use heat or cold therapy on any areas of pain as needed. Heat can soothe tightness, while cold can reduce inflammation.
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Support for Your Joints:
- Consider using supportive braces for your knees if they feel unstable or during activities. This can provide additional stability and help you feel more secure.
- Evaluate your footwear to ensure you have supportive shoes, which can make a significant difference in joint alignment and comfort.
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Hydration and Diet: Staying well-hydrated can help with blood circulation and overall energy levels, which can be beneficial when dealing with potential POTS symptoms. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals will support your overall health.
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Routine Check-Ins: Continue your appointments with healthcare providers. If your symptoms worsen or new symptoms arise (like severe joint pain or swelling), make sure to communicate these changes.
It's understandable to feel anxious about your health, especially with the uncertainties you mentioned. Allow yourself to acknowledge those feelings, and remember to reach out for support as needed. Take it one day at a time and focus on the actionable steps within your control. If you need further guidance or modifications to these recommendations, please feel free to ask.
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