Does anyone know an effective treatment for Charcot Marie Tooth Disease (CMT)?

I was diagnosed with this heredity-based, degenerative neuromuscular disorder about 15 years ago but the symptons started getting progressively worse about 6 years ago. I've been to a neurologist with Muscular Dystrophy and his only treatment was Vicodin and we all know the problems that can cause. The pain started in my right foot but is now also in my left foot and both hands from the forearm down. I've been to an orthopedic Dr. but he had no solution. I have to wonder if this a disease stem cell research could help but I don't want to get into that debate. I appreciate any available advice. Thank you, Craig H

There is no cure. However, the following info might be helpful to you.
Physical therapy. Physical therapy for CMT involves muscle strengthening and stretching to prevent muscle tightening and loss. A physical therapy program usually consists of low-impact exercises and stretching techniques guided by a trained physical therapist and approved by your doctor. Started early and followed regularly, physical therapy can play an important part in delaying nerve deterioration and muscle weakness before disability is present.
Occupational therapy. Some people with CMT may experience weakness in their arms and hands, causing difficulty with gripping and finger movement. Normal daily activities, such as fastening buttons or writing, can become difficult. Occupational therapy can help you deal with such challenges through the use of assistive devices, such as special rubber grips on doorknobs or clothing with snaps instead of buttons.
Orthopedic devices. Many people with CMT require the help of certain orthopedic devices to maintain everyday mobility and to prevent injury. Leg and ankle braces or splits can provide stability during walking and climbing stairs. Wearing boots or high-top shoes may provide additional ankle support. Custom-made shoes or shoe inserts may improve your gait. If you have hand weakness and difficulty with gripping and holding things, thumb splints may help.
Surgery. If the signs and symptoms of CMT become severe and other treatment methods don't help, surgery may be an option to reverse foot and joint deformities. Ankle surgery may stabilize the ankle or provide better distribution of weight. Foot surgery is discouraged if special footwear or supportive orthopedic devices can help instead.
Research continues to provide additional treatment options that might stop or reverse the effects of CMT. Studies are also under way to determine if CMT can be prevented. Future treatment may include the use of gene replacement therapy, which may involve delivering specific genes to certain cells and muscles, and using nerve growth factors, such as the hormone androgen, to prevent nerve deterioration caused by CMT. Other research includes treating CMT with stem cells. In recent laboratory experiments, scientists have found ways to turn stem cells into nerve cells and myelin-producing cells. It may be possible to use these cells to replace the damaged or diseased cells that cause CMT or to repair nerves damaged by the effects of the disease.

Try Vitamins C and E; research has proven both help CMT. For more info see cmtushope.info Report It