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Balance & Gait Problems: A Real Puzzler
Aging Well | Last Active: May 27, 2022 | Replies (59)Comment receiving replies
Hello, @ray666 and @fourof5zs as well as all of the others who have added to this conversation. I have found this very interesting because I too have had falls where my left leg will give out on me and I'll find myself on the ground (always a surprise). Fortunately, I'm quite short so I don't fall too far. So far, no broken bones just injured pride and feeling that I really should be able to walk better. Like you, @ray666, I've become much more aware of where and how I'm walking.
I had an EMG done recently that did show a slowing in the nerves of the left leg and a temperature change between the left and right leg showing the left side colder than the right.
I've also had MRIs of the lumbar spine which has been quite a mess for a long time. I also have a definite problem with the sacral joint that @fourof5zs mentioned. I'm now seeing an orthopedic specialist.
All of this to say, it sounds as if many of us are in the same boat. I do exercise my core to keep it as strong as possible. I have other exercises from previous PT experiences that I work with on a regular basis as well.
Many years ago, when my gait problem began I felt like I walked with a stagger (to the right) I saw numerous neurologists. I was tentatively diagnosed with Parkinson's (PD). Since PD does not have a direct testing method, lots of other diagnoses were ruled out. Finally, after many years of staggering and falls a neurologist suggested a PD diagnosis. She told me that in situations like mine, trying a PD med (like Sinemet) is a way to find out if PD is the issue. Once I began Sinemet, the connection between my lower extremities and my brain became much stronger.
Now, however, many years later this left-sided weakness is causing falls again. It makes me feel like I'm starting at square one, however, I understand that I'm now dealing with another aspect of the aging dilemma that we are all experiencing.
@ray666 has an EMG been done for you yet?
Replies to "Hello, @ray666 and @fourof5zs as well as all of the others who have added to this..."
Hello!
This is in reply to Teresa (@hopeful33250) and everyone else who has posted in reply to my thread. I've been remiss in not keeping up with your messages.
A brief update, however: This past Wednesday I met for the first time with a physical rehabilitation and back pain specialist (I believe he's called a physiatrist). We had what I thought was a very encouraging meeting (well over an hour, which in itself was amazing).
His exam showed a number of places on my body where my nerves appear to not be working 100%, my feet especially. He's ordered lab work and a lumbar MRI; also an EMG, which I'll be getting but not until 8/1. After that, we'll meet again. I'm encouraged.
Ray (@ray666)
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Hello, Teresa! (@hopeful33250)
Thank you for your post! I'm finding this discussion to be fascinating. When I started it, I hadn't realized that so many of us had faced a similar dilemma when trying to put a name to what ails them. If I may jump right in …
I've not had any serious falls. In fact, for many years, I'd had none, even though a half dozen most every day, I'd feel like I was about to fall. In the past 12 months, I've had a few actual falls––no broken bones, but lots of dings and scraps. The increasing frequency is what's got me worried.
I've never had an EMG. From what you say, Teresa, it sounds like an EMG is a very revealing test. You probably noted in my earlier posts that I'm in the care of a neurosurgeon. Based on a cervical MRI, he's the fellow who diagnosed borderline cervical myelopathy––not requiring surgery (in his opinion); instead, some cervical PT and yearly checkups. Since my concern is uncomfortable walking, awkward gait, off-and-on wobbly balance, and a fear of falling, an EMG may be what's necessary for me to be able to put a name to my problem finally.
Also, as I am about to resume PT (on 4/20), I wonder if I should ask that our focus be less on my cervical back and more––far more!––on walking/gait rehabilitation (if there is such a focus).
One other thing you mention, Teresa, that has me thinking: Might I benefit from a PD exam? Some years ago, when I was already aware of my slowly deteriorating balance, I'd raised the question of PD with my primary doctor. She administered a few simple tests there in the exam room and concluded, No, Ray, you needn't worry about PD. But that was several years ago.
Again, Teresa, thank you for all of your insights!
Cheers!
Ray (@ray666)