Foot Drop - Facing MS symptoms from A to Z

Foot drop (or drop foot) is one of the reasons folks might look at a stumbling multiple sclerosis warrior and assume he or she is just clumsy (or even intoxicated). 

This dastardly MS may prevent one or both feet from getting clear signals from the brain. Toss in a hearty dose of muscle weakness and some spasticity in the legs or ankles, and the whole thing can really trip us up.

 More than a few MS warriors don’t wear sandals or open-toed shoes, simply because they have scraped too many toes because of foot drop. Others steer clear of clogs, mules, and scuffs, because such footwear tends to offer little support and lots of slipping potential.

If this persists, an MSer might wear a brace (or two braces) for added stabilization and steadiness. A cane or walking stick can also be helpful when foot drop greatly affects the walking gait.

Tripping might draw teasing, if onlookers don’t know why we do it. We’re not clumsy clods or dreary drunks. We’re just trying to put our best foot forward, if you catch the drift.

 

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Series title graphic adapted from public domain artwork.

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