Country music icon Alan Jackson, a proud native of Newnan, Georgia, is currently on his “Last Call: One More for the Road Tour.” This tour, which began in 2022, is set to continue through 2025 and is being described by Jackson as the final chance for fans to see him perform live.
At 66 years old, Jackson’s final tour comes amid a long-standing battle with a chronic neuropathy condition, which he revealed to the public in 2021.
What is Alan Jackson’s health condition?
For over a decade, Jackson has been living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a hereditary condition that affects the nerves, impairing his ability to move and maintain balance, particularly on stage.
In a 2021 interview with TODAY show host Jenna Bush Hager, Jackson shared that he inherited this disease from his father, and it has affected other members of his family as well. He was officially diagnosed in 2011.
“It’s been affecting me for years.”
Ten years ago, country music superstar Alan Jackson was diagnosed with a degenerative nerve condition affecting his ability to walk. Now, for the first time, he opens up about his health struggles to @JennaBushHager. pic.twitter.com/IkrQOeixjR
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) September 28, 2021
What is Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease? What are the symptoms?
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease causes a variety of sensory and motor symptoms. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, these symptoms can include numbness, tingling, pain, muscle weakness, and atrophy (the deterioration of muscle cells). Over time, the disease may also lead to foot deformities, which worsen as the condition progresses.
In some cases, CMT can affect the nerves responsible for controlling automatic body functions, leading to issues like sweating and dizziness.
Symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease may include:
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Weakness or paralysis in the foot and lower leg muscles
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A high-stepping walking pattern, often leading to frequent tripping or falling
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Balance problems
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Foot deformities, such as high arches or curled toes
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A noticeable “inverted champagne bottle” shape of the lower legs due to muscle loss
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Difficulty feeling heat, cold, or touch
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Potential weakness and atrophy in the hands
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Decreased ability to sense vibrations or understand body position
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Scoliosis
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Hip displacement
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Chronic shortening of muscles or tendons around joints
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Muscle cramps
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Nerve pain
What causes Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease?
CMT is primarily an inherited disorder. If a person has a family history of the disease, they are more likely to develop it. However, just because a person has CMT doesn’t necessarily mean their children will inherit the condition—though it does increase the risk.
Is there a cure for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. However, treatment options such as physical and occupational therapy can help manage symptoms and maintain quality of life for individuals with the condition. Orthopedic devices and surgery may assist with symptoms, and doctors can prescribe medication to alleviate severe nerve pain.
Alan Jackson’s openness about his condition has brought attention to the struggles of those living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and his ongoing tour continues to inspire fans worldwide.