Wheelchair

[Ipanoptic]

Has anyone got any experience of a wheelchair with lymphedema?

I’ve had multiple cellulitis infections, 20+, I am getting treatment though. Along with the lymphedema I’ve also had a stroke and I’ve got arthritis in my spine (AS).

I’ve some idea what it’s like as I spent over 14 months in a chair after the stroke, but I’m facing the notion of it being a more permanent thing now.

I can walk, but the distance I can cover is getting shorter, maybe 2 - 300 yards, and it’s getting harder. I’m really struggling with walking, but I’m also aware of the restrictions being in a chair will bring.

I’m just trying to understand how other people deal with a situation where mobility is a challenge.

[Lynora]

I have several clients who use wheelchairs, and like you, have other conditions in addition to lymphoedema. They use their chairs as aids to get from A to B, but are able to discard the device in the home, or in the workplace, if it is safe to do so - utilising walking sticks where necessary.

[Ipanoptic in reply to Lynora]

Thanks for the reply Lynora. I’m terrified that over doing it walking wise will cause damage to my foot in particular. It seems the be the point of entry for infection, not always, but mostly.

The lymphedema that I have was left pretty much untreated till a decade ago, so there are a lot of skin changes, especially around my toes.

Because of the type of stroke that I had, I’ve been left with a pronounced weakness down the right slide of my body, so I walk with a limp, shuffle kinda thing. The point I’m getting at is that it takes a lot of effort to walk.

Balance, coordination, motor movement, swallowing, disphaysia, and dyspraxia are just some of the issues from the stroke. All that with advanced and active AS on top of the Lymphoedema makes walking a challenge.

I’m actually quite down about it, and very angry most of the time. This last month seems to have seen a very rapid decline in my mobility. So while I know a wheelchair is probably wise, I’m fully aware of the restrictions it’ll bring.

I had the stroke when I was 35, I’m now approaching 50 and it’s all getting a bit overwhelming, I can’t fault my partner, she’s been my rock in all this. I don’t have friends really because I’ve no one to relate to and I dont have enough interest in anything to turn it into a hobby.

Sorry, this has turned into a bit of a rant, it’s not directed at you, just had to say it....sorry. Thanks again for the reply.

[Lynora in reply to Ipanoptic]

I have sent a PM. XX

[HIHI7]

You are a breath of fresh air for me. Thank you. I was diagnosed a month ago (primary Lymphedema) Knew something was wrong my whole life, didn't know what. Anyway, For your question. I went and got a wheel chair. I can't walk through the store anymore, I can't clean my house as well anymore. But with my new chair, I can go places with my kids and still get out now. It is a hard pill to swallow, loosing independence, and wondering if it is time or not. Listen to your body. It is telling you.. It is time. Sending hugs your way. I hope for the best for you.

[dogperson]

I spent so many years in pain hobbling from seat to seat that finally turning to an electric wheelchair was a great relief. Yes, there are losses, but overall my quality of life is greatly improved. You are dealing with so much, but a wheelchair may be a big help.