Muscle Weakness in Upper Legs (Neck MRI)

[SSK0404]

My father is having weakness in his upper legs, he describes it as feeling like his legs are going to give out on him. He is unable to stand up without puching himself up with his arms. The doctor has scheduled him for an MRI of the neck and bloodwork. Why is an MRI of the neck needed for muscle weakness in the legs? Is this due to the nerves? He is also having some double vision. Would this also be related to the muscle weakness?

[dogmum]

*You're welcome..

Sorry, can't spell today. ;)

[dogmum]

Your welcome.  I do hope that he gets answers soon.  

-Laura

[SSK0404]

Thank you. I will ask those questions.

[dogmum]

By the way, I'm not sure what they might be thinking with the neck MRI.  If they suspect nerve issues in the legs, they would usually MRI the back (lower) or brain if they suspected that it originated there.  You may want to ask them what theory they're working on.

-L

[dogmum]

Has he been tested for myasthenia gravis?  He may want to have a Tensilon test + antibody test for MG.  Two of the red flags for MG are double vision and needing to use the arms to climb stairs, etc.  

http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/myasthenia_gravis/detail_myasthenia_gravis.htm

Laura