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CFS and trouble walking

Posted , 4 users are following.

kathie37110
kathie37110

Hi Everyone - I have found some older posts but nothing more recent than a year ago so hoping to start a new discussion.  I was diagnosed with RA and Fibro and had 4 months of severe vertigo.  Lots of different doctors and lots of different meds.  Fast forward to now, four years later, no more vertigo (just some slight dizzies when it rains) - weaned off the heavy meds, got off of dairy, gave up caffeine, lost about 35 pounds, have been able to work through all of this and have a good support group in family and co-workers.  Seeing a chiro the past four months and have felt much better (after many falls the past few years I was way out of whack) - however, my walking is such an issue and the more I read on CFS I'm wondering if that is adding to it.  I am at the point where I can walk okay inside if there are walls, still can't do curbs or stairs due to leg weakness on my left side, anyway, big areas, parking lots, etc. I can only walk about 10 steps with my can and then I start falling forward, because my left leg just stops working.  So half my body is moving but the other half isn't.  All in all, I'm feeling better than I have in the past four years but the walking thing is very frustrating and taking away so much independence.  If I can get to a shopping cart I'm good, or if I have someone's arm I'm good, but on my own outside, no good!  Sorry for the long rambling post.  Just hoping for some insight.

0 likes, 8 replies

8 Replies

  • Buckeyes
    Buckeyes kathie37110

    Posted

    Had to look up CFS.  Do you have any back problems?  I have spinal stenosis along with other back issues and have had some falling issues.  My right leg collapses at times too.  The shopping cart sounds familiar.  With stenosis it helps to lean forward as with the cart.  I get severe spasms after walking too much and have gotten a cane too but it doesn't help with the pain.  Probably looking at surgery.  Having 4th steroid injection next week but don't have much faith that it will help.  I also have R A.

    good luck on your treatment.  Keep us posted.

    • kathie37110
      kathie37110 Buckeyes

      Posted

      Yes I also have spinal stenosis.  Have not been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue but it seems when you have one thing it leads to another......
    • Buckeyes
      Buckeyes kathie37110

      Posted

      Might try to see orthopedist to be evaluated.  You didn't mention you had.  I also went to chiropractor but I have so many issues I don't think they can deal with all of them.

       

    • kathie37110
      kathie37110 Buckeyes

      Posted

      It has never occured to me to see an orthopedist!  Thatnks for that suggestion.
    • Buckeyes
      Buckeyes kathie37110

      Posted

      How did you find out you had stenosis?

      just curious.  Mine was found by MRI.

  • Rowbirdie
    Rowbirdie kathie37110

    Posted

    Hi

    dont have the same as you so not sure if this suggestion is relevent.

    But wondered if physio would help to get your balance back?

    i have RA and lost a great deal of muscle while I was bad. Now meds are working I have been gradually building up on exercise, first hydrotherapy exercises. Then I found I was improved enough to take up line dancing and swimming , both of which have helped with RA and fatigue as long as I build up slowly.

    . Dancing would be crazy for you until you can walk without feeling your leg would give way but wondering if a physio could analyse where muscle needs to be stronger and give you exercises esp now the chiropractor has set you on a good course.

    i have been surprised at how much my balance and stamina have improved by building up what seems like very low key exercise in small steps. You ve done so well to stay positive through it all so I m sure you ll find the next thing that will help you.

    • kathie37110
      kathie37110 Rowbirdie

      Posted

      I see people mention physio - is that like physical therapy?  I'm glad you have had so much success.  That is encouraging.

       

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