> Hi all,
> This is my first message to the group. My wife Leslee has contracted (idiopathic) TM C4,5,6 on June 27, this year. I must say that this has been a very traumatic time for us. When her condition was worst (2 days) she had lost strength in both hands, arms, abdomen, and right leg. Her left leg was non movable. Loss of sensation from arm pits down. As time has progressed she has regained control of her left leg, although still very weak. The TM seems to have hit the left side of her body a little harder than the right. Grip on her left hand (except for index finger) is about 10% of normal, the right hand is at 40%. She is able to walk with a cane for short distances but must rest often.
>
> Now for the questions.
>
> 1. She describes a tingling (pins and needles) sensation from her bra line to thigh region, more to the stomach than back side. She would like to know if anyone has this, what to call it, and if it will go away.
>
> 2. She also is wondering if she will always be tired or if that will continue to get better? I guess she wants to know if at 3 months that's all there is or will improvement continue over years?
>
> Thank you all for your help. Richard, Ohio.
Hello Richard and Leslee:
Every one here experiences this TM in a different way as I see it. I had intense hardness from my bra line down, that went into pins and needles, hard time walking and breathing and yes tired. Seems my neuro stated if your not cured by 3 months this is what you get. Well, well, well, he's not that smart. Because now I can drive again and yes I do still have the pins and needles feeling and the tightness, but not nearly as intense as it was in the beginning. I got this in March of 97 (and it's amazing how you can remember the day).
I have spoken to Gunny on this list who suggested I keep moving along with Phil who states the same. Gunny suggested the water aerobics, which I now do and stretch bands
and magnets .I chose to go holistic and do not take prescription drugs, I take supplements and herbs . I did take the steroids for a month and seeing absolutely no results, I stopped. I'm coming around, slowly, but am pushing for the big difference. I am more fortunate than others being able to walk, thank God for that. Every day will be a new day to be challenged. Keep the faith!
My best to you both, Deborah