The Orthostatic Tremor Forum (archive)

Hello, I am convinced I have OT after reading messages on this board. I went to a neurologist and had an MRI last week. all it showed was degeneration in my spine. that doesn't help with my leg problems. I don't know what to do now. I can't afford to keep going to different doctors and having tests but I need a diagnosis. the only thing the neurologist told me about my legs was that the test to measure tremors was painful and expensive. I was sure the MRI would show something so I went ahead with that. he kept looking at my legs even though I told him the tremors aren't visible. what should I do now?

hi dogpatch
i dont know why your dr. told you the test was painful. it isnt at all.
You need to tell your neurogolist you need an EMG test done.
That is the test that shows up this diseade.
you have to insist sometimes with these doctors.
THjere is nothing to be afraid of in the test.
The MRI most always comes up normal with OT patients it seems.
So dont give up and good luck.
Sound very much like you have what we do
candyse

thank you Candsye, do you know what EMG stands for and how much it costs. I don't have much insurance.

Hi dogpatch.
EMG means an electromygraphy test.
I dont know the cost.
I live in Canada, so our medical is different here.
Hope you can check it out

Dear Dogpatch: Getting diagnosed is frustrating and I suggest that you try to find a neurologist who specializes in Neurological Movement Disorders. Large teaching medical centers generally have such departments. They will know the proper testing to confirm a correct diagnosis.

Good luck and keep us posted, Gloria

thank you for your replies. sorry I spelled your name wrong Candyse. I went to a neurology clinic at a well known university for medical sciences. what I don't understand is why an MRI was ordered in the first place if it wasn't going to be able to diagnose my legs. I almost dropped dead when I got the bill. my insurance won't even cover a third of it so I don't know how I am supposed to pay for the proper test. I'm really kind of mad right now and intend to call the neurologist on Mon. when he called me last week with the MRI results I couldn't even think what to say. it's very hard dealing with all this stuff alone. if I had a family member or good friend with me to think of things to ask for me I might have been able to be spared an unnecessary test but unfortunately my family and friends are scattered all over the country right now. it's the weekend now so there's nothing I can do until Monday. thank you for listening.