What is the medical term for numbness in the legs?

The medical term for numbness in the legs is peripheral neuropathy. This condition arises from damage to the peripheral nerves, which can lead to various symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and weakness in the limbs. Peripheral neuropathy can result from several underlying causes, such as diabetes, infections, certain medications, and systemic diseases. The sensation of numbness specifically indicates that the nerves are not functioning properly, which is characteristic of this condition.

In contrast, chronic low back pain primarily relates to discomfort in the lower back region and does not directly address numbness in the legs. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease affecting the cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness in the affected joints but is not specifically associated with numbness. An abdominal aortic aneurysm involves the dilation of the aorta and can lead to severe complications but does not primarily manifest as numbness in the legs. Thus, peripheral neuropathy is the appropriate term that specifically conditions the symptoms described.