[Leeds 59]

Weakness in my legs and arms

by Leeds 59 on Sat Aug 24, 2013 8:20 pm

I was diagnosed with M.M. Last fall. I was due to retire on Jan.1 2013, but left in early Dec. mostly because I could not climb even three or four stairs without difficulty, nor lift my arms far above shoulder height, without a real effort. I am wondering if anyone else suffers from this, stairs, even a curb.. Are a Pain. Getting in or out of the car is a slow process that sometimes requires me to lift my leg with my arms and kinda swing first one then the other into place. No problem walking ONCE I am up, but get into a low chair, or somewhere that I cannot get a grip to help pull myself up and I am screwed... Like a turtle on his back. Input appreciated..

[Boris Simkovich]

Re: Weakness in my legs and arms

by Boris Simkovich on Sat Aug 24, 2013 11:49 pm

Hi Lee,

Very sorry to hear about the problems you've been having.

When I read about your situation, it reminded me a lot of another one that was discussed in the forum recently. Here's the thread -- perhaps you'll find it useful:

https://myelomabeacon.org/forum/yard-sticks-t2077.html

Given the fatigue that you're feeling, it makes me wonder if your hemoglobin level is low. Is your hemoglobin level being checked regularly (I'm guessing it is) and, if so, what sort of level is it at?

Best of luck to you,

Boris.

[coachhoke]

Re: Weakness in my legs and arms

by coachhoke on Wed Aug 28, 2013 3:40 am

I have similar problems doing steps,curbs, and getting out of seating positions. I thought mine has more to due with osteoarthritis than multiple myeloma.

[rdrainwater]

Re: Weakness in my legs and arms

by rdrainwater on Fri Nov 29, 2013 5:32 pm

I was diagnosed in 2009. Began treatment with Rev, Dex and Vel. Had an auto-SCT in July, 2012. Now I am on maintenance therapy with Rev. Since then my neuropathy has gotten worse. Could your problem be neuropathy?

[StandingTall]

Re: Weakness in my legs and arms

by StandingTall on Sat Nov 30, 2013 1:02 pm

If its general weakness that makes those maneuvers hard, it could be muscle weakness...especially if you have had a lot of bedtime since multiple myeloma got rolling. An occupational therapist and/ or physical therapist may be able to help you target areas that were weakened and give you safety suggestions to minimize risks of falls...something our weakened bones don't need! Call up a social worker who can probably help order up any assist devices...or if you have a Knights of Columbus around who usually keep a lot of bath chairs, or toilet/bath rails and similar stuff they they will just give you.

Or yeah...it could be drug fatigue or low blood count. Bring it all up to your doctor.

Are the movements you described being restricted because you're feeling pain? Then you probably need to update your pain management with your care team. Before diagnosis, when I was going down hill...the pain in my back/ spine just so limited my movements...and I found it very difficult to even do basic tasks, which was really frustrating. And yeah, getting in the car sucked...but now with good pain management...I was able to get in out easier as I was slowly building my strength back. Now, other than a nagging collapsed spine pain if I am up too long or seated to stiffly up, I get around pretty well with minimal difficulty, and I find it I am able to back off my pain meds too. One day at a time.