What is the term for weakness that affects both legs?

The term that describes weakness affecting both legs is known as paraperesis. This condition specifically refers to a degree of weakness in the lower limbs, which can result from various neurological conditions, including multiple sclerosis. It highlights a bilateral impairment, distinguishing it from other terms used to describe weakness in different parts of the body.

Monoparesis refers to weakness in a single limb, while hemiparesis indicates weakness that affects one side of the body, including an arm and a leg on that side. Diplegia, on the other hand, often refers specifically to paralysis or weakness in two limbs, typically used to describe conditions involving both arms or both legs, but can sometimes be context-dependent regarding whether it pertains to complete inability to move or simply to weakness. In this case, paraperesis is the most precise term to describe the gradual loss of strength in both legs.