Re: CMT & back problems

[Guest guest]

I, too, have had back problems, albeit very minor

compared to those of you requiring surgery, etc.

However I do believe that back problems are related to

CMT in a SECONDARY sort of way. As you all know CMT

affects mostly the peripheral nerves, which are the

farthest nerves from the brain and spine. So back

problems are not likely caused by CMT directly(in most

of us, generally speaking).

But because of our impaired gait, the ankles, knees,

hips, and back are not in proper alignment when we

take even one step. This is bound to cause back

problems.

Also, we may not be as physically active as others.

When I first stopped working this became a problem for

my back. Simple stretches and strengthening of the

abdominal, lower back, and gluteus muscles helped a

great deal, and I continue to do these daily.

Also I was advised to use a cane to assist my walking

and take away some of the side-to-side motion of my

limp. I never realized a cane would help with this,

as I had always used a cane in the past to limit

weight-bearing after foot surgery. Simply taking

steps with the cane on my LEAST affected side, as I

step forward with the MOST affected foot helps

tremendously--and I don't even lean on the cane so

much, it's just an added bit of support for when the

step with my worst foot does something unexpected.

Just my experience--30 years with CMT(around 25

operations on my feet), and only now learning how to

properly use a cane!

Whatever it takes...

Joyce S

[Guest guest]

Joyce....makes a lot of sense..on gait..etc... & being a

secondary factor. Stretching has been very beneficial for

me also..! but some are not as fortunate to do these.

Discovered also, that gaining weight can also add to

complications...for me anyway! Thank you for the input!

Dawn