Re: Hand Weakness

Elyse Steinmann (esteinma(AT)mail.coin.missouri.edu)
Sat, 31 May 1997 17:30:57 -0500 (CDT)

At 03:16 PM 5/25/97 -0400, you wrote:
>In a message dated 97-05-25 07:52:45 EDT, you write:
>
>> I first received a diagnosis of transverse myelitis about a month ago. I
>> am a 44 year old male. First symptoms were leg spasticity now
>> controlled by Baclofen. My neurologist said the diagnosis would carry
>> less of a stigma than MS. Since all tests for MS came back negative but
>> the symptoms are there, this is the most appropriate diagnosis.
>>
>> I recently have noticed a marked weakness in both hands. I can't open
>> jars or even zip bags. No pain just no hand strength. This is all new
>> to me. Four months ago I was a "normal person". Need some support.
>> Thanks, Myron.
>>
>
>Dear Myron,
>
>I wonder what you dr. meant by TM having less of a stigma than MS, unless he
>meant in connection with insurance. Mine said an MS diagnosis could cause
>insurance problems (higher rates or not being able to get insurance if you
>have to switch companies.)
>
>Did your hand weakness come up since your TM diagnosis? I had much weakness
>in my left hand and both legs initially, but it improved within the first 6
>months. My legs are almost back to normal, but my hand is still a little weak
>(though better than it was), probably because I don't use it as much.
>
>Barbara
>
>
Dear Myron,
Have you had an MRI? My suggestion is to keep a journal of your symptoms. In
my case there is absoultely no way I could keep track of the symptoms over
the years. It helps the docs immensely. I was diagnosed with MS in Oct. '96.
My symptoms actually go back to 15 yrs. ago. Your symptoms will vary
depending on area of involvement. I have lesions everywhere except the
lumbar area, & I have developed a gnawing , paralyzed feeling even there. I
have lesions at C-6 causing dizziness & visual difficulties. I have severe
neck pain most of the time. I'm not sure that a diagnosis of TM or MS makes
a great deal of difference. Either way ins. co. will not pick you up after
either diagnosis. I am a nurse & have been working with managed care for
last several years. I am in the process of taking leave from my job-very
difficult to do-I really loved it. I am currently undergoing an MS relaspe.
I am receiving IV-Solu-Medrol through home health agency. It sure beats the
hospital routine. I experience extreme weakness all over-although my left
side suffers the most. I know that to keep moving in the key. Keeping
yourself limber helps. I try & walk on the treadmill for 3 min, a day. I use
yoga to stretch my legs- I have very little spasticity. I too use Baclofen.
All I can say is keep moving.Once you lose muscle tone it is hard to regain.
Hope this helps. Good luck.
Elyse