Vitamin D and balance shoes

[Amynah]

First of all that you to all who reply to my various posts.

I finally got a four wheel outside walker from NHS. I am trying to get used to it. I am just curious can I keep my walker in the backseat of the car. Has anyone had walkers stolen???

I met a holistic doctor at a holiday resort - he told me that I should get tested for vitamin D - as people with ataxia are prone to need more vitamin D. Is this true? Are any of you having vitamin D supplements?

He also told me to wear shoes that will help in gait balance? Does anyone wear special shoes for gait and balance and walking?

Thanks in advance for your replies.

[claire01]

When I first got diagnosed (2 half years ago) was prescribed vit. supplements and now take Vit D daily,strengthens your bònes 😀

[DeniseLB]

ok lucky you to have a car as I have been told I will never be able to drive a normal car again, but yes I am told the shoes will help I am waiting for an appointment where they are going to make special shoes for me, I have asked for sparkles to add a bit more interest, but I doubt I will get them.

All supplements help and for all of us the B's are important, but I also take vit D, basically we are still the same as everyone else it is just harder.

[Litty]

I have no experience of balance shoes - sorry. But last week i got some ankle weights (1 lb) and I THINK they are helping x

[cocoa in reply to Litty]

If you are in the UK you can self refer to Podiatry, where they will assess you and make orthotics.

I have been going since I was diagnosed and go back every so often, when I feel the need, and they make new ones or adjust the existing ones.

[wobblybee in reply to cocoa]

🙂 I know someone who has had this done🙂xB

[Amynah in reply to cocoa]

Hi and Thank you - I am in UK - I found the Harrow Podiatric Service - but have to be refereed by my GP. Lets see what they say!

[Roshidah]

When I first got diagnosed my condition was very weak & I was always admitted in the hospital. Later my blood was tested to check on vit d level & dr found out that D level in my blood was very low (malnutrition level). Then he prescribed me with vit D 11000 iu. After 3 months of taking the supplement my muscles hv become stronger & my current condition is not too bad.

[sammie62king]

My friend was given Vitamin D supplements in hospital when he was diagnosed with CA and also Folic Acid supplements. He has been on these on repeat prescription since he came out of hospital a year ago now. They must think it helps as I am sure they would have taken him off them by now if not. Hope this helps you.

[petbar]

I also take folic acid, vitamin b12 injection every 3 months, and vitamin d good luck

[cocoa in reply to petbar]

I am interested to know how you get the vitamin B12 injection. I have had to go privately for this.

[petbar in reply to cocoa]

My G.P. prescribed it after taking a blood test showing I was deficient

[wobblybee]

Should we be adding supplements just as a precaution🤔 I've had fairly regular blood tests and hope any deficiency would show up as a matter of course.🙂xB

[ladyntramp]

Hi Amynah, yes I have to have vitamin D tablets, but as I live in Australia I can't tell you the name of the tablets you'd have to take in England. Vitamin D is good for the bones too. I also have to have 'special' shoes, prescribed by the podiatrist, as I have problems with my feet. These shoes provide good support and stability for otherwise 'unsteady' feet. I assume this just confirms what the holistic doctor told you. All the best, Barbara.

[Veteran250 in reply to ladyntramp]

Hi Amynah...... I walk with a wide gate but only indoors and I have to lift my feet high off of the floor as I have Dropped Foot syndrome caused by diabetes....... I use an electric powerchair outside as I can only manage to walk a short distance (10yds) unaided.