finally a diagnosis

[earendel]

I've been experiencing a gradual and progressive weakness in my legs (more profound on the left side than on the right) to the point that I'm having to use a walker or wheelchair to get around. It started about a year ago and I've been going through various tests to try and find out what's wrong. After a brain scan, MRIs of my cervical, thoracic and lumbar spines, countless blood tests, a CAT scan and a nerve conduction study, a neurologist has finally determined what it is that's wrong. I have diabetic amyotrophy. Apparently only about 1% of those with type II diabetes contract this, so I guess I hit the lottery with this. The neurologist thinks that my problem has reached its peak (no more degeneration) and physical therapy might be of some use, though it's pretty certain that I won't regain full use of my legs. Funny thing is that my blood sugar has been under control all this time, but that doesn't seem to matter.

[SportsFan68]

Good luck! My cousin had this, but I didn't realize that made her a one percenter. I am not a health care professional, nor do I play one on television, but based on her experience, I strongly urge you to do all the recommended physical therapy exercises and extra reps if you can. She was mobile with a cane until her death.

[thguy65]

I've been experiencing a gradual and progressive weakness in my legs (more profound on the left side than on the right) to the point that I'm having to use a walker or wheelchair to get around. It started about a year ago and I've been going through various tests to try and find out what's wrong. After a brain scan, MRIs of my cervical, thoracic and lumbar spines, countless blood tests, a CAT scan and a nerve conduction study, a neurologist has finally determined what it is that's wrong. I have diabetic amyotrophy. Apparently only about 1% of those with type II diabetes contract this, so I guess I hit the lottery with this. The neurologist thinks that my problem has reached its peak (no more degeneration) and physical therapy might be of some use, though it's pretty certain that I won't regain full use of my legs. Funny thing is that my blood sugar has been under control all this time, but that doesn't seem to matter.

For this type of uncommon nerve problem, most people don't have out-of-control blood glucose levels.
You did not mention any pain symptoms in your description of your problems, so I hope you have been spared that potential feature of diabetic amyotrophy.
I hope your condition has truly hit the worst point and you start some recovery, which tends to occur to some degree in most persons.

- Tim H.

[ghostjmf]

Oh my G-d. My condolences to you. I hope you do indeed recover more mobility with therapy.

And being diabetic myself, with my blood sugar currently not under great control despite good A1C (I am very stressed, & my morning levels show this often), I have to hope my body doesn't hit in this lottery too.

[a1mamacat]

Damn, that sucks. Hugs to you and Elwing

[earendel]

I've been experiencing a gradual and progressive weakness in my legs (more profound on the left side than on the right) to the point that I'm having to use a walker or wheelchair to get around. It started about a year ago and I've been going through various tests to try and find out what's wrong. After a brain scan, MRIs of my cervical, thoracic and lumbar spines, countless blood tests, a CAT scan and a nerve conduction study, a neurologist has finally determined what it is that's wrong. I have diabetic amyotrophy. Apparently only about 1% of those with type II diabetes contract this, so I guess I hit the lottery with this. The neurologist thinks that my problem has reached its peak (no more degeneration) and physical therapy might be of some use, though it's pretty certain that I won't regain full use of my legs. Funny thing is that my blood sugar has been under control all this time, but that doesn't seem to matter.

For this type of uncommon nerve problem, most people don't have out-of-control blood glucose levels.
You did not mention any pain symptoms in your description of your problems, so I hope you have been spared that potential feature of diabetic amyotrophy.
I hope your condition has truly hit the worst point and you start some recovery, which tends to occur to some degree in most persons.

- Tim H.

I haven't had any pain associated with this problem, save for the occasional twinge.

[K.P.]

Prayers and good vibes coming your way!

[tlynn78]

Yikes, Ear, not good news. Sending good healing wishes your way.

[Appa23]

As I was reading your post and symptoms, I was dreading that you were ending with amytrophic lateral sclerosis. Thankfully, I was only partially right.

[Bob Juch]

Shit! Good luck.

[Beebs52]

Be strong.

[Catfish]

Hugs.

[ghostjmf]

The best thing I found by reading up on this condition is that its caused by lesions on the nerves. At least that's the current thinking; didn't used to be. How in the world is that good??? Well, because the lesions can heal. They currently say this. So it makes it better than conditions involving nerves where the direction is downhill.

[kayrharris]

Thankful the diagnosis has been made. Hoping for the best outcome for you. Follow the doctor's orders and take care.


kay

[earendel]

As I was reading your post and symptoms, I was dreading that you were ending with amytrophic lateral sclerosis. Thankfully, I was only partially right.

Believe me, that was my biggest fear as well.