The Orthostatic Tremor Forum (archive)

I was just wondering if anyone finds they have signs of OT when they are swimming. My OT has gotten progressively worse and I noticed today when I was in the pool I had no problems even standing up, however as soon as I got out the tremors were noticeable. Just wondering about others experience.

Hi. I found the same sort of thing in the swimming pool. I think that once the weight is off your legs your okay. I also think that when you are tired and getting out of the pool your OT kicks in. I have notice that if I am doing some work outside and my leg shake I often kneel down and find some respite. OT is definitely a standing problem. They say that a problem shared is a problem halved.

Best wishes from
Adrian O'Connor
Ireland

Hello Gazunni...I swim at least 4 mornings a week ...in the pool I have never felt the tremor !!#! I believe it is because the water is giving all round support ...I wade , and do water exersises,stretches etc as well as swim ...with my cane waiting at the ready to help me get to the changing room..

in your introduction I note you ask about medication , as you are not seeing the specialist until November .

Some four weeks ago I started Gabapentin [via my general GP] after 3 years of resisting taking any prescribed medication ....I had had a few mishaps getting to the changing room from the pool and over all life was getting hard to cope with OT . From the first tablet I have not felt a true full on tremor , its been amazing ...Still use a cane where ever I`m out ...and take a walker for busy outings where I may need to sit ....

With such a good result with Gabapentin ...I wonder why I didnt take it sooner , but then I wouldnt have appreciated feeling so good ....and have such an understanding of living with OT.
I still swim ,but now can walk the beach and enjoy being on outings without worrying about how I`m going to cope ...I just do it ...long may this last......take care .......Didi NZ

I too enjoyed swimming and could take pool-gym classes - great fun. But the shower-situation took the fun out of the experience for me and I've stopped going to the local swimming-pool...
I should give it a new try. Swimming is good. And if/when I do, I'll try to sneek the stool that is in the shower area, mostly used by others to place their shampoo on.. as I'll need to be seated.

/the nut

I have been doing water exercises for years and never noticed the shaking, but just got to thinking I am usually always moving in some way. Either jogging in place etc. I will have to try standing in place & see what happens. In the shower, sometimes I have to lean against the wall. Good Luck it is a great exercise!

Do not want to sound like I`m nagging ...But please all you OT`s ,give pool swimming a go ,as a form of regular excersise !!#!..you can lean on the shower walls or some pools have special needs changing rooms that have pull down seats below the shower head ....most pools have walking ramps into them as well as steps as an option ...and life guards are on hand to lend one if need be ...its really only our pride ,plus having to source a half decent swim suit that holds one back !!...I have decided I will never look good in swim suit ever again ...and besides no-one really cares ...so just get on with it ...
For me the pool showers are easier than at home ...so go with all the kit ,shampoo etc ...works for me ....Didi NZ.