Limping Treatment in India

Arjun Kumar, a 42-year-old software engineer...

Arjun Kumar, a 42-year-old software engineer and father of two, had always been active. Over the past six months, he developed a persistent, painless limp in his right leg. It began subtly, a slight foot drag, but progressed to noticeable weakness and occasional tripping. He dismissed it as a pinched nerve from long hours at his desk. His wife insisted he see a doctor after he nearly fell carrying his daughter. The neurologist, Dr. Mehta, observed spasticity and hyperreflexia in Arjun's right leg. An MRI revealed a small demyelinating lesion on his spinal cord. Dr. Mehta recommended a detailed gait analysis and electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function and rule out conditions like multiple sclerosis or a spinal tumor. The EMG was uncomfortable, with needle electrodes causing brief, sharp pains, but Arjun remained still, anxious for answers. Post-procedure, the diagnosis was a focal demyelinating lesion, likely an isolated spinal cord episode. Treatment began with a course of intravenous steroids and physical therapy. After three months, his limp improved significantly, though he still fatigues easily. Emotionally, Arjun journeyed from fear and denial, terrified he'd lose his mobility and ability to play with his kids, to profound relief and cautious optimism. The diagnosis, while serious, was treatable, and he now advocates for early neurological consultation.