Hidden Dementia Sign: The Disease May Begin in the Legs, Says Neurosurgeon

Forgetting things is often dismissed as a normal part of daily life. However, doctors warn that persistent memory lapses may signal the early stages of a serious neurological condition—dementia. Surprisingly, experts now suggest that the first signs of dementia may appear not in the brain, but in the legs.

Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, mood, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. While it is commonly associated with old age, medical professionals are increasingly observing early symptoms in people at a younger age.

According to neurosurgeon Dr. Arun Naik, dementia can begin subtly with physical changes, particularly in the lower body. In a recent video, Dr. Naik highlighted an often-overlooked warning sign: weakening of leg muscles, a condition known as sarcopenia.

Leg Muscle Weakness as an Early Warning

Sarcopenia refers to the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength, especially in the legs. Although muscle loss can occur naturally with aging, lack of physical activity accelerates the process. Dr. Naik explains that this decline in leg strength may be closely linked to reduced brain function.

Several studies indicate that individuals with weaker leg muscles face a faster decline in cognitive abilities, increasing their risk of developing dementia. The reason lies in the connection between muscle activity and brain health.

The Role of a Brain-Protective Chemical

When leg muscles are actively used—such as during walking or exercise—they release beneficial chemicals into the body. One of the most important is Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF).
BDNF supports brain cells and strengthens neural connections, particularly in the hippocampus, the region responsible for memory and learning. Reduced muscle activity leads to lower BDNF levels, which may negatively impact memory and cognitive function.

Reduced Risk of Falls and Injuries

Strong legs not only support brain health but also improve balance and stability. In older adults, poor balance significantly increases the risk of falls, which can be life-threatening after the age of 60. Maintaining leg strength helps reduce this risk and supports overall independence in later years.

How to Reduce the Risk

Doctors emphasize that simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference:

• Walk daily for at least 30 minutes
• Practice strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses
• Consume a protein-rich diet to preserve muscle mass
• Use stairs instead of elevators whenever possible to improve balance

Start Paying Attention From Age 40

Experts advise that it is never too late to start, but the best time to focus on prevention is from the age of 40. Even individuals in their 60s can reduce dementia risk by adopting healthier habits. Strong legs, doctors say, contribute to a sharper and healthier brain.

Disclaimer:
The information and claims in this article are based on content shared in a social media video. Navbharat Times does not independently verify the accuracy or effectiveness of these claims. Readers are advised to consult medical experts before adopting any health-related practices.