MS Specialist
 

My neurologist here referred me to an MS specialist in Charlottesville. I've never been to one before, and I was curious about what would happen. The doctor is a very nice man and a nice doctor. He spent 50 minutes with us. I had DH sit in so that he could help answer questions and remember what we talked about.

He questioned me about my MS history, dating back to the 70's. That took awhile. He then did a complete neuro exam. He asked me if I could walk without my Rollator and without my service dog, Monty. I said yes, if I could be near a wall to catch myself if I lost my balance. He then stood behind me and said try not to take more than two steps backwards when I pull you backwards (or maybe it was push you forwards--I forget which). That was something new to me. I took five or six steps backwards. Then, I forgot to ask him what that was for.

He signed me up for the Touch study, to check for the VC (?) virus that causes PML. The nurse who draws blood for that test wasn't there that day, so I had to come back the following week. That worked out because DH was having a CT scan at the same time in the same office complex.

Oh, Dr. Scagnelli told me that I would be seeing the PT group at my next appointment. He's also ordered and MRI of my brain, cervical spine and thoracic spine, with and without contrast.

I feel that Dr. S really knows what he's doing. I'm glad that he is going to work with me and not just tell me to come back in six months. :)

it sounds like you've found a good dr. MS specialists have a lot more experience with MS. they see a lot more MS pts and specialize in it.

write your Q's down. when you see the dr for a f/u you'll know what to ask.
a good neuro exam is a place to start.

keep us posted.