Dementia May First Manifest as Leg Weakness, leading Neurosurgeon Reports
London, UK – October 11, 2025 – Early symptoms of dementia may not appear as memory loss, but rather as subtle difficulties with walking and leg weakness, according to a warning issued by a top neurosurgeon. The revelation challenges conventional understanding of the diseaseS onset and coudl lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention for millions at risk.
Dementia,a syndrome affecting cognitive function,currently impacts over 55 million people globally,with numbers projected to nearly triple by 2050,according to the World Health Institution. Recognizing the initial signs is crucial, as early detection allows for lifestyle adjustments and potential therapies to slow progression. This new insight focuses attention on motor skills as a key indicator, perhaps broadening diagnostic criteria and prompting individuals to seek medical evaluation sooner.
Professor Michael Crawford, a leading neurosurgeon specializing in dementia, highlighted that changes in gait and balance often precede noticeable memory problems. He explained that dementia frequently begins affecting areas of the brain responsible for movement before impacting those governing memory and thinking. “We’re finding that subtle changes in how people walk – a slight shuffle, increased stiffness, or a tendency to trip – can be an early warning sign, sometimes years before traditional symptoms emerge,” Crawford stated in a recent interview.
These initial motor symptoms stem from the buildup of abnormal proteins in brain regions controlling movement, such as the basal ganglia. As these proteins accumulate, they disrupt neural pathways, leading to difficulties with coordination and balance. while leg weakness can have numerous causes, its presence alongside other subtle cognitive changes warrants examination by a medical professional.
Experts emphasize that experiencing leg weakness does not automatically indicate dementia. Though, awareness of this potential early symptom is vital for both individuals and healthcare providers. Increased vigilance and earlier diagnosis could significantly improve outcomes for those at risk of developing this debilitating condition. Further research is underway to refine diagnostic tools and develop targeted interventions based on these emerging findings.
