Ataxia

[Kaz53jim]

For the past few weeks I cannot cross roads without holding on to someone I feel as if I'm going to loose my balance the same happens on slopes and curbs

[Kaz53jim]

Just ordered one hoping it will help

[margaretm]

Hi Joshua,

I relate to what you have said as exactly the same thing has happened to me. Two weeks ago, I had a dizzy feeling when crossing a road with a crossing and a kind young woman helped me across. At the moment, I feel nervous at kerbs and my sense of independence is less. I already walk with a stick. However, I am reassured by the fact that the same thing happened to me last winter and all through spring and summer I improved and was able to walk, alone, for at least a mile each day. With ataxia, we have so many things to consider: dizziness, reduced feelings in the legs, nystagmus etc. Is it any wonder that a dodgy kerb or cold weather will push us over the edge? Until the weather improves, I have resolved to increase my heel-toe and other neuro physio exercises and to use my cross trainer more. I also do lots of core exercises. When I go out, I am going to take my Sholley, a sturdy but stylish shopping trolley, and be supported by that. I don't want a rollator, at the moment. By the way, I am a 62 year old grandmother, so the outlook for someone younger is even better.

Good luck, Joshua. Roll on better weather!

Margaret.

[sheild]

I haven't got an ataxia diagnosis as such but fully understand that feeling. It started on steeper slopes then got to gentler ones then onto flat surfaces. I used a quad stick for a long time (2 years or so) but have had to use a wheelchair now for getting outdoors on any journey.

[sylviagreenhalgh]

I found that frightening also losing control of my legs when going downhill. A stick was useless as it made my balance worse so I got a lightweight walker from Coopers - you get it on line. and it is like a zimmer on wheels but I find it really helped as it was more stable than a stick and I have walked miles with that. the walker folds up so you can put it in the car.!My walking became non existent after 3 years so I asked the GP to refer me to the NHS wheelchair service and I was given a powered wheelchair which I used but now I do not need it as I had brain surgery this month as they found my walking problems were caused by normal pressure hydrocephalus so they put a shunt in my brain which drains the excess fluid in my brain. I live alone and so I have to manage my conditions as best I can but I found the light weight walker a godsend. good luck love Sylviax