Problems walking after covid

I tell my husband ALL THE TIME that my legs feel like jelly. I got covid twice, once in 2022 and once in 2023. 2023 infection wrecked me and since then I have been dealing with intense fatigue, mainly in my legs. I have found that making sure I am fully hydrated and taking my meds, helps me to feel better, but I still cannot walk far. If I do something like go to a sports event, and walk about 2000 steps in 75-80 degree weather, it can keep me on the couch/in bed for a few days. Other times, I can walk around 4000-5000 steps and not have any symptoms and be fine. It comes and goes, typically with stress or after activity.

Sorry to hear what you are going through. My relative is in a nursing home and I believe I was exposed to Covid there. When I had Covid for the first time in 2021, I had severe muscle aches. This time, I can hardly walk. My legs feel heavy like cement. I have severe pain at my knees and calves. I have felt like this for the past few days. The pain is the worst in the morning and before I go to bed. I am a 53 year old woman who is usually very active, but this excruciating pain has me resting and sleeping alot. I tried flexeril, but I haven't had much relief with that. I take over the counter pain meds, but they don't take the pain away completely. Hoping that you and I and anyone else affected like this, feels better soon.

I can relate. My legs gave out a couple times while I was infected with the virus. Now my legs are just weak (significant atrophy) and while they haven't gave out yet, I wouldn't be surprised they do at some point in the future. This saddens me greatly. I've always enjoyed hikes and walking around town with headphones on. Now I have a hard time walking more than a few blocks.

I read your story and want to suggest to you to drink some electrolytes. I use LMNT which is an electrolyte powder I order on Amazon. It has 1000 mg of sodium, 60 mg of magnesium and 200 mg of potassium. I suffer from hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s and have felt like passing out before I started taking Synthroid and drinking electrolytes. I’ve also eliminated gluten, dairy and soy from my diet and that has helped so much. Good luck!

Yes, I understand. I always walked 2 miles 6 to 7 days per week, more if we went somewhere more inviting then our subdivision. After Covid "recovery" it was a struggle. Now I walk 15 to 20 minutes at a time, but getting there was a struggle. I keep forcing more steps using a cane until I pass 15 minutes, but I do it in a space where I can readily sit.
I don't need a cane to walk around, but to enhance strength under these new, and I hope, temporary circumstances.
Perhaps a cane might help you too.