heavy legs, deep bone throbbing ache in his calves and somewhat up into his thighs which varies in intensity but which has been pretty extreme this last 24 hours, but the scariest is difficulty getting his leg muscles to respond so his feet drag somewhat when he walks.
What the doctor says:
This is most likely a type of peripheral neuropathy side effect from the Velcade. He's going to stop taking it for two weeks and see if he bounces back or not. Unfortunately there is a chance that this effect may be permanent. After the two weeks we'll see about going on a reduced dose or ???
What we're doing for it:
Our neighbor's hot tub definitely seemed to help with a hot bath or shower a more convenient not quite as good option. He's taking more pain meds and a rather novel idea brought up in the support group... putting Vick's Vaporub on the afflicted areas, cover with a stocking or something and sleep through the night with it on. Odd, but there are hopeful reports and we'll be trying it tonight.
So that's what's up with us for the moment. We've been so lucky so far, I feel a little taken aback with this rather abrupt turn of events. I guess we are fortunate that there still are other med alternatives and that his numbers at this time are not in Myeloma crisis territory. And since he's off the dex for the moment too, this should be a goood sleep stretch! ("there's no great harm without some small good")
Kathleen
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