Symptoms of ALS Feet

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive and debilitating neuromuscular disease. It causes increasing muscle weakness and will eventually result in disability and death. ALS is also called Lou Gehrig's disease.

Early Symptoms

Early symptoms of ALS are so subtle that they are often overlooked. Symptoms may begin with weakness or twitching of the feet, which may lead to difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

Foot Drop

Foot drop is one of the early symptoms of ALS. This is characterized by difficulty lifting the front part of the foot and toes.

Babinski's Sign

Another symptom of ALS that involves the feet is called Babinski's sign. This is indicated when the big toe extends upward when the sole of the foot is stroked.

Considerations

Initial symptoms vary from one person to another. While one person may first experience muscle weakness and cramps in the feet and legs, another may experience slurred speech or difficulty swallowing.

Progression

As early symptoms progress into obvious weakness or muscle atrophy, a doctor will begin to suspect ALS. The disease will spread to all parts of the body. Most people with ALS will die within three to five years of onset of symptoms.

References

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: ALS Fact Sheet
• Mayo Clinic: ALS

Resources

• Neurology Channel: ALS Symptoms
• ALS Association: Initial Symptoms