Huntington’s disease is a hereditary and progressive brain disorder. It typically begins between the ages of 30 and 45, although there are cases that begin in childhood. As the disease progresses, concentration and short-term memory diminish and involuntary movements of the head, trunk and limbs increase. Walking, speaking and swallowing abilities deteriorate. Eventually the person is unable to care for him or herself. Death follows from complications such as choking.
HD affects males and females equally and crosses all ethnic and racial boundaries. Each child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the fatal gene. Everyone who inherits the gene will develop the disease. More than a quarter of a million Americans have HD or are “at risk” of inheriting the disease from an affected parent.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- HDSA
- HD
Symptoms:
- Loss of cognitive abilities, such as memory, concentration and speaking
- Loss of physical abilities, such as increases in involuntary movements, inability to swallow, etc.
- Emotional responses, such as apathy, severe depression, poor social judgment and aggressiveness
Signs to look for:
- Diagnosis and family history
- Loss of cognitive and physical abilities
Possible Causes:
- Inherited gene
Goals:
- Address posture and balance issues
- Control motion of the feet
- Improve gait
- Make footwear for exercise comfortable
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- For Smart footwear, wear rocker soles, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Stop wearing wear pumps and high heels
- Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
Other:
- Where the above shoes and arch supports do not provide enough stability, bracing, wedging or flares may be necessary
Activities:
- Medical treatment
- Regular exercise program that promotes increased strength and circulation in lower extremities
- Regular stretching program for entire body
- Rotation of weight bearing and non-weight bearing exercising, such as walking (weight bearing) with swimming and bicycling (non-weight bearing)
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Text: hdsa.org, kumc.edu