Electrical Stimulation: Electrodes placed
strategically on my skin emit an "alternating" electrical current mimicking my
body's own electrical conductivity and stimulating my weak muscles. This has helped
improve my own nerve conduction and muscle responsiveness. 3x/week.
Strength Training: Strength-building exercises are
key to fighting both spasms and spasticity. Muscles go into spasm as a protective measure against
further injury. For example, the spasm on the inside of my calf and foot
defends against my weak ankle rolling out. By building strength in my ankle over time, I
can break the spasm cycle. Already, muscle I've built in my upper back has
significantly reduced spasms in my chest, improving range of motion in my
shoulder. 3x/week.
Pressure Point Massage: Look for a massage therapist
like mine who has extensive training in sports injury rehabilitation (mine used to travel with
the L.A. Lakers), as well as knowledge of kinesiology and neurology. My masseuse works
through all three layers of muscle, sometimes applying pressure so deep, her
hands shake. 1x/week.
Botox: (Post 1-26-12)
Baclofen: I take a low daily dose (20 mg) of this
muscle relaxant – helpful especially in the beginning when exercise
increased the stiffness in my muscles. I hope to soon reduce my dosage and
ultimately discontinue it.
Home Program: I continue to be active; to wear my
nighttime foot and hand braces; and to stretch and exercise my hand 5-6
times/week.
