I was diagnosed with OT in 2003. My regular doctor didn't have a clue what was wrong with me and referred me to a neurologist. She immediately diagnosed me. She knew exactly what was going on. I was lucky to get her the first time. She put me on Clonazapam and later added Pramipexole. Both have worked pretty well with no side effects and I've been on them for about 10 years. I don't have too many other health problems like some do and am grateful for that.
I've come to terms with the OT and try to function as normally as possible (not being able to stand is a real challenge!). I love the new OT business cards posted on the forum. Friends have said I could get a parking Handicap plaque but I don't need one. I walk just fine. I always said I need one for standing in line! Now I have one.
Walking around in circles is how I cope with lines. I also have a deal with my husband that I run around the store and fill the basket and then he stands in line and I go sit in the car. I've trained most of my friends to "walk or sit" when we talk.
I've just joined a new gym. Walking on the treadmill has improved my balance and stride, which were getting bad. I've noticed that walking outside I soon tire and my legs and my back starts to hurt. (after sitting down for about 5-10 minutes, these symptoms go away and I'm good to go)
But this doesn't happen on the treadmill!!! I can do 2 miles with no problem at all. My goal is to increase my stamina, strengthen my core muscles to hopefully help with lower back pain. It's such a joy to be able to walk fast and surefootedly (is that a word?). It has noticeably improved my everyday walking. My balance is better.
Another interesting thing I learned is that I can do Yoga! Somehow, I can do most of the poses, including standing (like the warrior poses). My theory is that because my muscles are stretched and under tension, it fools the OT. There are a few poses I can't do, but I can stand! Has anyone else experienced this? I haven't had the nerve to try the warrior pose in a line yet
The way I feel about having OT is that it's very inconvenient. It doesn't hurt. I can do lots of things like drive and walk. I'm learning to cope with it and do pretty well. Then there's a moment when I'm doing something and start shaking and it's such a drag
My OT has gotten worse the last few years. I now am more aggressive in dealing with it. I'm 63 and retired and am a crafter and a backyard breeder of canaries and lovebirds. I'm active in the bird club and run our Bird Mart every year. I paint things and make things and actually sell some. I do yard sales and estate sales and sell to vintage boutiques. The yard sales are getting harder (standing and walking slow) but I'm trying to cope.
When I go to a street fair or flea market, I take my mom's walker, just so I can sit down.
Well, I could go on and on, as we all could. Thank you for listening and thank you Gloria.
Terese