I relate to the buckling knees, which for me came on fairly suddenly and unpredictably around the stenosis, back surgery, and unrelated infections I underwent in a two month period in the winter of 2020-21. I have been since diagnosed with polyneuropathy, caused by an autoimmune reaction to one or more of those factors. Immunoglobulin infusions have been part of the treatment.
What has also helped me in PT is upper body and core strengthening, along with exercises for my legs. Specifically Aquatherapy has helped all of that, along with giving my brain and body a sense of balance.
However, I do not get up or move across a room without a walker, trying to put more weight on my legs than on my arms and shoulders, but needing the support on both sides of my body. I also finally acquiesced to an orthotic brace for my left foot drop. I have not had a buckle or a fall in a while.
For longer distances, I use a wheelchair, without embarrassment, or the feeling that I haven’t been “working hard enough.” It all helps me live the life I want within my new limits.
But when I was falling frequently, legs buckling out of nowhere, I had to get to a good neurologist and a number of wonderful physical therapists, who continue to work with me in this new normal. I also had to get the equipment I needed to augment all of that. It’s a lot of adjustment, but worth it to me and my helpful family.