My 14 yr old is in physical Pain from his Complex Tics, Please Help..

[Mattysmom]

My son is now going into his 4th year of Tourettes with vocal and motor tics that are complex and continuous. He has now added a word he blurts out which is new.

He is currently seeking CBT and is not in medication. I am trying Chelated Magnesium and Vitamin D3 along with calcium and. Probiotic. I have heard about "Tic Tamer" I believe that's the name .. Has anyone had success with this?

I have an Ex that won't follow the same/ similar steps unfortunately so his diet is compromised with nitrates and artificial additives.

I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions regarding Pain. My son is in terrible Pain. His back mostly. I have contacted a chiropractor and was thinking about Acupunture. Has anyone found relief from these practices? I'm open to any suggestions.

He loves soccer and is at his best when he is out being active but lately he isn't in the mood and wants to sit down because of his back pain. Lower back specifically.

His tics are constant until he falls asleep which takes over an hour & 1/2 .

He has peace when he sleeps.

I appreciate any advice that anyone can offer. Truly!

All my best to you and your family ..

Mattysmom..

[Chemar]

Hi Mattysmom

Sorry to hear your son's tics are so intense!

 

My son did find great benefit from careful chiropracty and acupuncture.

An epsom salts bath (Magnesium sulphate) is also very soothing to the muscles and joints when tics have caused pain. 2 cups epsom salts in tub of warm water. soak 15-20 min then bed is what we were advised. There is also a Morton's Epsom Lotion (Walgreens and Walmarts) that is very soothing

 

We did find clean diet and careful supplementation essential

 

Here is some helpful info

http://latitudes.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=2459

 

Hope things stabilize soon!

[elkk]

Definitely try acupuncture! From my understanding, it is the treatment with the least side effects. Just search for someone with experience in treating TS.

[Wombat140]

Just to add (rather late): I expect you've tried obvious things like ibuprofen already: if the tics themselves improve after ibuprofen as well as the pain, then there may be some kind of inflammatory condition involved, such as an infection/autoimmune issue (PANDAS/PANS). Thought I'd mention that - it's kind of an unofficial preliminary test around here, though I dont know whether all kids with PANS improve on ibuprofen.

[Sheila]

Mattysmom, I'm so sorry to read of the major problems your son has been having. And I know it's so hard on you also.

 

I'm wondering what you have already tried for him in the way of conventional medications? Is he currently under the care of a neurologist/movement specialist?

 

Typically when looking at integrative or alternative approaches for a serious situation like this, you will need professional help to find out what the underlying issues are.

 

All the ideas mentioned here by others make sense. At the same time, if his diet can't be followed consistently and you aren't yet aware of all the underlying imbalances that may be causing his tics, you could meet with frustration in trying to find a solution on your own.

 

I hope you could write back and tell us what has been happening lately, what you have tried, and if you think things are moving in the right direction. We care and would be happy to try to help you find resources in your area. Sheila