DEAR DR. GOTT: I had a stroke about 1-[1/2] years ago and have continuing weakness on my left side. I have had physiotherapy and have been doing some yoga exercises to strengthen my leg muscles in particular; however, my knees and legs are still weak. My doctor, physiotherapist and pharmacist all advise that only exercise will bring back this muscle tone. Can you suggest any medication that would help?

DEAR READER:<$> Your physician, pharmacist and physiotherapist are all correct. There is no medication to help you regain muscle tone. Only exercise and proper nutrition will help you regain your strength. Although I doubt that you will improve so many months after your stroke, continuing physical therapy can help. Perhaps you could focus on preventing another stroke. Follow your neurologist’s advice.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Stroke.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. G:<$> Please send me a copy of your article on the bad effects of substitute sugar. I know a lady who wouldn’t believe me when I told her that Splenda was bad.

DEAR RER:<$> To my knowledge, a moderate use of sugar substitutes is harmless and assists overweight people in shedding pounds. Splenda and other similar compounds are, in most cases, safe to use.

DEAR DR.TT:<$> I have been experiencing chronic jaw discomfort for almost a year now. I had an X-ray, and it did not show any bone loss or infection. My doctors and dentist are puzzled and have no answer. However, recently, I was doing research on Fosamax and discovered that osteonecrosis of the jaw could is a side effect, albeit a rare one. I have been on Fosamax for about a year and a half. I have osteopenia of the spine.

For the past month, I discontinued the Fosamax to see if there was an improvement. It may be me, but it seems that the discomfort is beginning to lessen. I have replaced the medication with frequent strength training and a daily container of yogurt in addition to 1,400 milligrams of calcium with vitamin D supplement per day.

DEAR DER:<$> Although rare, the jaw-bone damage caused by Fosamax can be a serious (but avoidable) complication of therapy. Your might conclude that Fosamax is not for you, continue your calcium/vitamin D and check with your gynecologist or primary-care physician to see whether your osteopenia (early brittle bones) requires more aggressive therapy.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Understanding Osteoporosis.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title. Doctor Gott is a practicing physician and the author of the new book “Dr. Gott’s No Flour, No Sugar Diet,” available at most chain and independent bookstores.