This is my first post. My heart goes out to everyone that has to deal with the effects of this devastating condition.
My wife had foot drop a month ago, and it isn't getting any better. In fact, dorsiflexion is getting more and more difficult. There was no trauma to cause the foot drop, and there are are present no other symptoms, and no pain or loss of sensation. I strongly suspect ALS, yet remain optimistic that there is another cause.
The neurologist wants to do an EMG/NCS series. My wife and I talked about it, and have tentatively decided against the test at present.
What good can the test really do? Not only is the test painful, but if the nerve is normal, there is probably a more sinister cause of the foot drop. We'd both rather not know that. If it is indeed ALS, further symptoms/signs will eventually happen. We'll deal with it then.
Does anyone else share this rationale?
I waited six months before seeing a neuro I didn't want to know either .
The EMG is mildly uncomfortable .Your wifes symptoms might be treatable.
My symptoms were obvious to me
If it is ALS and l pray it isn't she will be referred to the ALS clinic close to you .
To be honest the ALS clinics really is to benefit them as we become their lab rats.
However if it is ALS you need to be prepared for so many changes in her life .And they come in handy at the beginning for that.
The social worker is very informative and pt and ot will help her with certain exercise and helpful techniques
She made be eligible for disability insurance .medicare ,equipment that can take forever. You may want to get, changes in your home and that takes time
ignorance may be bliss.Unfortunately it isn't with ALS
.Maybe you should reconsider. As scary as it may be
Good Luck
Pat
