Walking and balance

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Dear Drs,

This message was mistakenly sent to the dietician, which she kindly answered. However I would appreciate your input.

I have been a parkinsons patient for 18 years.

My medications are as follows:
2 sinemet 25/100 3x daily
3 mirapex .75 3xdaily
1 amantadine daily
I cannot tolerate comtan

My walking has become consideeeerably worse, and I am unable to exercise as I have spinal stenosis and too much exercise leaves me with considerable pain.

Can you suggest any changes in medication or additions to medication that might help me in this situation so that I can continue to walk unassisted. (I do use a cane)

I want to thank you for your assistance and for your caring.

Shirl
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Dr. Okun



Joined: 19 Jan 2007
Posts: 251
Location: University of Florida

PostPosted: Mon Sep 24, 2007 12:21 pm Post subject: Reply with quote
My best advice is to see a movement disorders specialist and see if increasing levodopa helps the gait. If not, then physical therapy and assistive devices are the way to go.

Finally you may need a speciality decision as to whether back surgery will be of any assistance.
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Michael S. Okun, M.D.