[ElaineD]

Dearest NeuroTalk PN folks:

Recently I noticed that my knees were pressing together and my ankles were turning in when I was walking or trying to stand.

That was very scary to see!

I called my Neurologist and asked for a referral for Physical Therapy.

I have the therapy at a clinic associated with Duke Raleigh Hospital, and it has been very thorough and professional.

I have many exercises to do and many ways to improve my walking and strength and balance. But it is a lot of WORK! This is hard for me as I am constitutionally lazy and very happy to sit in my recliner and watch the world go by on my computer. IN addition I manage some websites and various social activities I am part of.

I still don't use a cane to walk since I find it is only helpful if I am going to be in a museum or some place where I am walking more than I do in daily life.

I do go to the fitness center, and use the Nu step and now the 'shuttle' (that machine where you press out on a large metal plate to strengthen your legs).
My husband also tells me there's a machine for exercising my hips, which also have become weak.

And of course I can see the atrophy of my calves since the onset, about 7-8 years ago of the neuropathy.

How many of you have tried physical therapy and what results have you had?

Regards, ElaineD