Trying Out Physical Therapy with CMT

I did not realize physical therapy could be such an adventure. WOW. Not only was it informative but it was also a workout! Boy, my muscles ached after the first session. I had an evaluation done a few weeks ago, but the other day was the first session. The evaluation consisted of me walking while a physical therapist assessed my mobility and range of motion.

Why did I go to physical therapy? The orthotist thought it would be a good idea to help me adjust to my ankle-foot orthosis (AFO). I am having a hard time with steps and balancing on inclines, as I’m still getting used to the braces. So, I went to physical therapy, hoping for the best. I was not really sure what to expect.

The physical therapist was very sweet and young. He made sure to tell me that the hardware in my back, from my scoliosis surgery, was older than him. Not really sure how I felt about that, so it’s a good thing he is sweet. He asked a lot of questions and seemed to truly want to know how CMT affects my daily life. I explained how the AFOs are helping me, but at the same time, I am not 100 percent confident when wearing them. The AFOs do help with the fatigue, and sort of keep my ankles straighter. Yet, I find it harder to navigate steps and sometimes feel off-balance. I also notice that my knees still hyperextend.

Again, the therapist evaluated my walking. I always feel self-conscious when anyone watches me walk. I am very aware of my awkward gait, which makes me uncomfortable. However, the therapist was really nice and nonjudgmental. He decided on a few exercises that could help me learn to control the movement of my knees. They were awkward and hard to do. After the first set of exercises, my hips stiffened. Then, we had to do a few different exercises to stretch my hips. It’s amazing how one issue leads to another issue.

We did a few more exercises to learn to control the movement of my knees that were a bit awkward and uncomfortable. I was sorer than when I go to the gym and ride the bike for about 40 minutes. I was surprised by how stiff and sore my hips and knees were when I woke up the next morning. I am hoping that pain goes away with time.

I now have a few exercises to try at home and at the gym. Am I convinced they will help? The jury is still out on that. But I am going to stick with it. I would love to know your experiences with physical therapy. Do you find it helpful at all?

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