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Paraparesis or Partial Paralysis
My name is Cheryl B. I came to Abundance Acupuncture in February, 2009 because I was suffering from a condition called Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis. Basically that means stiffness in both legs. Unfortunately it also spread to my arms, hands and affected my speech. Because I have stiffness in my legs, my balance is very poor. I would fall anywhere from 1 – 5 times a week. Sometimes I would fall 3 times in one day. I have had this condition for about 11 years. As a result of my condition, I had to quit my job working in a cheese processing plant. I find it challenging to do everyday tasks. I can do them it just takes me a lot longer because of the stiffness and unbalance. If I stand for prolonged periods of time my toes get sore. Walking is difficult because I have to be aware of what is on the ground in front of me. Uneven surfaces (grass, gravel, etc.) are extremely hard to walk on. I have tried many different things trying to receive some form of healing. I have been to physical therapy, massage therapy, a chiropractor, a health kinesiologist and even tried singing Tibetan bowls. None of these have produced prolonged relief. When I started acupuncture I was taking 5 muscle relaxers per day. Within the first 1 ½ months I was off all of my muscle relaxers. To me that was an amazing accomplishment. The muscle relaxers were replaced with natural herbs. I have had a lot of relief in my muscle stiffness. My balance has also improved. I still fall, but not nearly as much as I used to. I have gained more confidence to go places alone because I am not as fearful of falling. I seem to be more joyful having something that has had a healing affect on me. I came to a plateau where I was not seeing any improvements. The acupuncturist recommended that I try physical therapy along with acupuncture. That was a great suggestion. The therapist focuses on my balance and walking technique. I have exercises to help strengthen my leg muscles and my core stability. Now when I go to acupuncture I go into the clinic with tight muscles from exercise and weight training and I can feel relief in my muscles before I even leave the clinic. Coming into the clinic gives me a sense of peace. Everyone is very caring and positive and they take the time to get to know their patients personally. I definitely have a long healing journey ahead of me but at least I know that there is acupuncture that can help me on my journey. I am in this for “the long haul”. Optimal health and walking 3 miles a day are part of my goals. I believe you have to stay positive and full of faith and hope. Relief from Bell's Palsy
The Bell’s palsy paralyzed the right side of my face and I was unable to smile, chew on my right side, or close my right eye. I also felt painful burning sensations in my face. At times I felt like I would never get better. When David Milbradt said to me during the first consult, “I’m glad you came. I think we can help you.” I felt a great sense of relief and renewed hope. I tried physical therapy which made very slight improvements in my facial movements and chiropractic which loosened up my tight neck. I was also taking ibuprofen for the pain. I began to feel some improvements in my condition after five treatments at Abundance Acupuncture and after 12 treatments I felt significant improvement. At this point in time my condition feels 80% better. My face looks symmetrical again and I am able to smile and chew better. I have also had improvement in other problems like the tendonitis in my left ankle that prevented me from walking for exercise which is significantly less painful now. During the treatments I felt peaceful and in good hands. The clinic is inviting and the staff is welcoming and caring. David and Shari are very persistent and patient. I felt very hopeful and started to show improvement after a couple of weeks. I would recommend acupuncture to everyone because even though I came for one problem initially, Abundance Acupuncture treats the whole person. I feel generally healthier and my face has improved dramatically. I am looking forward to improving my overall health and continuing acupuncture treatments to maintain it. |
My name is Sharon B. I came to
Abundance Acupuncture in January 2010 because I was suffering from Bell’s
palsy. I had this problem for 2½ months.