Hello, neighbor. Well, kind of yes to both. I've had balance issues for many years, maybe 15-20 years. I was diagnosed for 12 years with MS but not definitive diagnosis or treatment. I've fallen multiple times, some injuries, often my legs were so weak or I was in such poor condition I couldn't get up, etc. It's not been good. No solutions forthcoming. So, finally, I was completely at my wits end and called Mayo and thus began my journey to finding answers and healing.

I found the most and best help from warm water therapy. My Mayo neurologist sent me to PT for the only exercise he allows, other than simple stretches and walking.....carefully, with walker. I normally go to the PT that has a therapy pool, heated to 94 degrees. I exercise in the warm water for an hour or so, depending on my stamina. That means walking, front/back/sideways, marching, stretching, and many other exercises as taught me by the PT. I don't need a PT anymore, but do the work regularly. It's the most wonderful feeling. No pain, NONE. Strengthening without stress or any discomfort at all. Just be sure not to overdo as you can make it tough for a few days. Gentle, relaxing, stress relieving and the best for overall conditioning. That includes balance improvement.

I also use a walker. I fought it for several years, and fell and almost fell many times. stubborn, but after leaving hospital and in rehab for a couple weeks, I couldn't go home w/o a walker. So, I got one and now I love it. I am secure, safe, stand taller, walk with more confidence. I still have some wobbles, but no falls.

I take requip at night. It's a dopamine enhancer drug that is similar to what is used for folks w/parkinson's for balance and other issues. I was prescribed requip for restless leg syndrome. I have severe RLS, keeps me awake at night and is very uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Interestingly, the requip helps my balance issues. My legs function better, don't feel like trunks, can lift my feet more easily, don't sluff as much, generally improves movement. I may have some parkinson's symptoms, don't know for sure but don't care at this point since I take this and it helps so much in so many ways. Balance has changed on requip, too. I'm generally not so wobbly. Do still lose my balance, but not so often or as badly. Unless tired or not enough sleep......

Yes, I took Lyrica for balance and other issues. It helped me a lot, but my doctor and I weaned me off it and several other drugs as I was on too many I thought and thought my brain needed a rest from the drugs. I'm off pain meds. Just take XS Tylenot if needed, Robaxin for muscle relaxation, and Cymbalta....a wonderful drug for fibromyalgia. It helps me more than anything with the fibro pain, etc. Lyrica is a good drug for me. If it helps, stay on it. I was on too much and now use MMJ tincture at night for anxiety/pain/sleep. It's wonderful.

I do think the balance issues requires careful conditioning, with exercise that's right for you, walking with cane or walker, and pool therapy for strengthening and overall balance/exercise. A good combination that will help.

Balance is tricky. Don't know if you have a diagnosis. Mine is caused by several issues combined and helped as I've mentioned. Hope this helps some.
Blessings and sleep well. elizabeth

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