Acoustic Neuroma: Balance issues years after treatment

@mollybrownbeard, I can imagine that having persistent balance issues years after treatment is a nightmare. Can you share a bit more? Has your neurosurgeon been able to explain how treatment may have affected balance or the vestibular nerve? Have you worked with a physical therapist for vestibular rehabilitation?

I can relate to your balance challenges. While I had GammaKnife treatment for my two acoustic neuromas 17 years ago, I didn’t have balance problems until a year ago. I’m grateful for that stability period, however, I went from aerobics and line dancing five days a week to chair exercises only and using a rollator with every step I take. My doctor explained years ago that the acoustic neuromas were slow growing—but they do grow, despite treatment.

Unfortunately physical therapy did not help much. So I just make the best of each day and take great care not to fall.

I had surgery to remove my acoustic neuroma 16 years ago and now I have to use a walker or cane because of my imbalance.. It has taken away my ability to enjoy my life. I am so out of balance that when I walk I am afraid people will think I am drunk! I can’t go into a store or grocery shop any longer. I am so unsteady I’m afraid I will fall. I have fallen a number of times including a fall which caused three staples in my head and concussion. I’m 80years old women and still feel my health is excellent except for my balance. I’m perfectly ok if I’m sitting. Strange!?

I know exactly what you are going through, but I hope you will take heart. The most important part of your message is that (other than the major balance challenges) you still feel your health is excellent,. So….Keep on walking so that you can keep on walking. At times, I feel self-conscious about my wobbling, but with my nifty rollator, I get more confident, hold my head up high and walk more securely (but slowly, too). I have to work hard not to feel sorry for or embarrassed by my growing infirmity. Rather, I focus on all the things I still can do at 76 years old. We have an adventurous journey, don’t we? Please try to focus on your otherwise excellent health, and tell yourself the challenges are manageable. At least, I hope for you.

I just wanted to reach and “walk” with you in a way. Slowly and very carefully. 👍

@mmm thank you so much for your comments.. its debilitating but I have to many things to do to quit!
Thank you