Hello,

Its been awhile since I've posted. My PN improved so much while I was in Hawaii, I was actually pain free for almost a month! Wow! I realize know how much stress and lack of rest plays a part of pain management for me. Now if I could only figure out a way to make a living snorkling and playing with my family on the beach in Kona, Hawaii, I think I could beat this PN!

Just as a reminder, I have PM in both feet, lower legs and some in my hands and arms. I also get stabbing and electric shocks in the head and body. My right leg and foot is definately the worst area. I have constant fasiculations, severe muscle cramping at night, etc. I walk fine, although painfully, and am able to keep up with all regualr activities although I do sometimes need to take it easy in the afternoon. I just noticed that my right lower leg muscles look smaller than my left. It is like my leg is shrinking and changing shape. I am going to mention this to my neuro, but I was just wondering if anyone else had this happen to their muscles..actually changing in size? I use it every day, so it is not from disuse...this kind of scares me.....

Ann

Hi Ann... I've had muscle changes, but not assymetrical... Mine have all been pretty symmetrical. However, my PN is pretty symmetrical. Some of the members here have had some asymmetrical PN, so they can better address your question.
I have gone from a very active athlete to a pretty inactive person. I've noticed that my muscles have decreased a lot. I'm starting to exercise again because I've got my PN under control now, and I am finally able to climb stairs and walk at least 1/2 mile now. I've noticed that the muscles "remember" quickly, and seem to be coming back easily! My brain wants to jump back into the training again, but my lungs don't think they are ready yet!
If I were you, I would have your doctor look at the muscle decrease the next time you see him/her. Especially if you've been pretty active over the last month. Swimming is a very symmetrical activity and doesn't seem like you would favor one leg over the other.
Keep us informed! I would like to know the outcome.

Oh, and what a great way to spend your vacation, snorkeling and hanging out on the beach with your family. What a lucky woman you are! I would love to do that! Water is my "relax" tool.

Terri

Ann,

First of all I am so jealous of you! Getting to spend that time in my favorite place of all just playing and resting. I don't know how old your children are but they should remember this for the rest of their lives. Can I come if you go again? LOL

My right leg has more pain and problems than my left but is the larger of the two. My right leg has always been predominent and I suffered a torn ligament in the left years ago so I have just naturally used the right. I don't know if PN has had a lot to do with which leg is larger. But both legs have suffered muscle loss from lack of use. Physical Therapy is helping me work on this but we'll see...

Nancy-H