My wife had back surgery yesterday and seems to be improving very rapidly. The sciatic pain that has plagued her for more than 9 months seems to be almost gone. She will be discharged tomorrow from the hospital.

Her MDS (who is on staff at the same hospital) came to see her yesterday and felt that part of her gait and balance issues also related to the sciatica. The other problem that she had developed was a torn meniscus (when it rains it pours). This may be affecting gait and balance as well. Her MDS (yes he is a specialist) feels strongly that the gait and balance issues are not solely related to the PD.

We'll see where things go from here. I am very grateful for all of the thoughtful responses from people and will keep you posted.

Howard