Unsteady Gait Treatment in India

Myra Jones, a 72-year-old retired school...

Myra Jones, a 72-year-old retired school librarian, had always been fiercely independent. Over the past year, she began feeling a persistent unsteadiness, especially in her dimly lit hallway at night. She started using furniture for support, calling it 'wall-walking.' A recent near-fall while gardening, which left her shaken and bruised, finally prompted her to see her GP, who referred her to a neurologist. The neurologist, Dr. Evans, recommended a comprehensive 'Unsteady Gait' workup, including a detailed neurological exam, balance assessment, and brain imaging to rule out causes like Parkinson's, normal pressure hydrocephalus, or cervical myelopathy. The experience was exhausting; the physical tests highlighted her limitations, and the MRI machine was claustrophobic. However, Dr. Evans was patient and explained each step. The outcome revealed cervical spinal stenosis compressing her spinal cord. Post-diagnosis, Myra began targeted physical therapy and a minor surgical consultation was scheduled. Emotionally, she moved from fear and shame about losing her independence to relief and empowerment. Having a name for the problem and a clear path forward replaced her anxiety with cautious optimism. She felt seen and was determined to regain her stability.