Inability to walk
I’m now 63 years of age and managed my AS quite well and managed to live my life in spite of the disease, but over the last 7 months have become virtually housebound as I can’t walk hardly at all and I think I’m going to become reliant on a wheelchair to get out but even that’s difficult as sitting is awkward, has anybody else lost the ability to walk quite suddenly mainly from damaged SI joints, how do you manage?
Have you seen a surgeon to discuss your issues? I lost the ability to walk several years ago, and finally found a surgeon who said "...I can fix that!", and he did. Still walking around at this point. I've learned that when all the doctors tell me they can't help, go see a surgeon for a consult. They know so much more than regular doctors. I ended up at a University Medical Center.
If you've already gone this route, then I hope you find a nice motorized wheelchair complete with an entertainment center...Hi James
Thanks for responding to my post , I have tried all these things but unfortunately without success, I think my age and therefore the number of years fighting this disease means I’ll be lucky if I get much more improvement, I feel for you and know what you must be going through but it sounds like you are doing all the right things to deal with your AS and all this will help you. In spite of the severity of my AS I am getting out now with use of a mobility scooter and an automatic wheelchair accessible vehicle, all of which means I now lead a good life. Thanks for your advice and interest and I wish you all the best with your AS journey
,
Thank you for taking the time to share your story and wonderful perspective.
We're glad to hear you are getting out and about and we're truly grateful you are part of this community. Be well, Doreen (Team Member)
Hi
,
I'm ever so sorry to hear that you have had to go through this over the past few months and find yourself in this position. Are you currently on any treatment at all?
I can relate as my AS lead me to being housebound for over a year previously and I know just how awful and painful that feels. Thankfully I was able to get back on my feet again through pretty much throwing everything I had at recovering in every aspect. I switched up my diet, met with a physio who gave me some tailored exercises to improve my situation and sorted out my treatment with my rheumatologist.
Admittedly I was in my 20s, so I understand that makes things a little different. But I still think it is worth meeting with your health care professionals and finding out the cause of this all and coming up with a way of fighting this thing!
Sending love and positive vibes,
James (Community Member)
