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Nada678
Nada678 Community Member Posts: 1 Listener
in Start here and say hello!

Hello

I have recently acquired a new disability called dropped head syndrome, where your neck muscles are too weak to hold your head up straight. It has improved a bit with physiotherapy, but I still can't keep my head up straight properly and its noticeable. I have become very depressed because I always had good posture before, and now it's terrible. I haven't been going out at all except to doctors appointments. I would really appreciate any advice as to how I can face the world again with this visible disability, especially as people seem to treat me in a patronising way now. How do I accept myself like this? I am a 70 year old woman and live alone.

Thank you

Comments

  • Bluebell21
    Bluebell21 Community Member Posts: 6,541 Championing

    Hello @Nada678 welcome to the Community.

    It can be difficult to come to terms with a new diagnosis and you need to give yourself to adjust to this.

    It is probably much more noticeable to you than other people although there will always be some people who will stare unfortunately.

    Have you spoken to your GP about how you are feeling to see if he can offer you any help.

    You have taken the first step to helping yourself by reaching out to us on the forum.

    Have a look around and join in when you are ready. This might help to build your confidence up a bit so you feel more able to go out.

    Perhaps go to the supermarket for a couple of things at a quiet time and see how you get on.

    Any time you want to chat or ask any questions we are here for you.

    Please take care of yourself.

  • Mary_Scope
    Mary_Scope Posts: 6,181 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists

    Hi @Nada678 and a warm welcome to the community from me!

    Thank you for telling us a little bit about yourself. It can take a while and be difficult to accept a new diagnosis so please don't be hard on yourself.

    Have you seeked GP support for how you're feeling recently?

    We're going to send you an email shortly so please keep an eye out for it.

    It's lovely to have you here and I hope you enjoy your time on the community😊

  • yellowpineapple84
    yellowpineapple84 Scope Member Posts: 390 Empowering

    @Nada678 Hello and you’re really welcome here in the community 😊 I hope that the warmth of people here can help. Sometimes I can feel very isolated and find being here helpful and I hope that you can find this too

  • Bluebell21
    Bluebell21 Community Member Posts: 6,541 Championing
    https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1150688#Comment_1150688

    Sorry just noticed I missed the word time out of my first sentence.

  • Zipz
    Zipz Community Member Posts: 4,348 Championing

    Hello @Nada678 Welcome! The condition you have must be painful and distressing.

    You refer to your previous good posture. I'm glad physio has helped a little but meanwhile remember you can still look good. You can have your hair done, perhaps try a new style, enjoy your makeup, dress well.

    I wonder whether it would be easier to go to new places to begin with, places where you can meet people who have never seen you any other way, before resuming older activities. A social prescriber might help, depending on your interests.

    Neck issues can be painful, fatiguing, and generally disabling. If you are not already claiming PIP, perhaps you could apply for Attendance Allowance.

    Wishing you all the very best.

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