My father-in-law is an alcoholic, smoker, and was diagnosed with dup's several years ago. He had an operation on his hand, but the dup came back. Now his fingers are all completely curled under. I noticed in the last year he was walking funny, and can't walk long distances. I haven't seen his feet, but asked if he had lumps on his feet like his hands, and he says yes. He said they are very painful. I suspect Lederhosen. He is on disability, and has no medical coverage. He hasn't seen a doctor (that I know of) in almost 6-8 months. I don't know if he is still drinking, but I would suspect moderate useage due to the pain. I am concerned as to how fast this will progress, and since the family seems to be in denial, I need to know what to expect. How long before he is wheelchair bound? Will he progress to the point of needing full time care? He can't use his hands, he can't hardly walk...he's gained a lot of weight (can't exercise), and probably has health problems due to his drinking as well. No one is addressing the issue in his family (not even my husband). Any advice on inexpensive things I can do to make him comfortable -- shoe inserts, aids to help him around the house, etc.??? Thanks.

Show your husband the website www.handcenter.org There is more then one doctor performing NA around the country. HOpefully one will be near you. .