Today on the blog, I want to talk about one of the most common symptoms of MS - ataxia. While the word choice "common" might make this symptom sound manageable, the lack of balance and coordination from ataxia leads to both physical and emotional difficulties that are difficult to overcome. Although it can be overwhelming - pause. You are not alone. I'm here to help.
Without further introduction, let's break down what exactly ataxia in MS is, and more importantly, how you can manage your symptoms and take back control.
Ataxia is a symptom of MS, affecting coordination and balance while walking. It occurs when the nerves responsible for muscle control are damaged, leading to a lack of muscle control and difficulty in maintaining a steady gait. I know what you’re thinking - what is gait? Although we don’t use this word very often, gait refers to the rhythm in which we walk.
For someone experiencing ataxia, the best comparison is trying to go down a wobbly bridge. This is due to walking with a wider stance, uneven footsteps, or different step lengths. This can lead to a lot of tripping concerns, along with a lack of confidence in one’s own balance.
Ataxia can pose significant challenges to daily life. Tasks like walking, standing, and the simple movements of completing tasks can become difficult and exhausting. In my practice, I focus on not just the physical challenges, but the emotional as well. Many of my clients, although working through our programs quite diligently, have a fear of falling and losing their independence. This can lead to an increase in social isolation of discomfort going into different environments.
Although it can feel overwhelming (and at times exhausting) trying to manage ataxia symptoms in MS, I want to make it clear you are in control. There are many treatment approaches available to not just help with the physical condition of your body, but the emotional difficulty of trusting yourself to walk smoothly.
Before I get into the exercises I recommend for managing ataxia, there are three main guidelines to follow when regaining some sense of control over your daily mobility.
1. Do one thing at a time. We all like to multitask as much as possible, but this can often lead to distractions and a lack of focus on balance. As a practice not just for managing ataxia, but everyday life, slow down and take it one task at a time.
2. A lot like slowing down and taking one task at a time, a lot of balance issues come from moving too quickly after standing up. I advise my clients to stand up, sense that stability, then continue moving forward.
3. Focus on quality over speed. We have a tendency to tend and do things a little too fast, which unfortunately makes ataxia worse. Place an emphasis on the quality of each movement (even steps and correct weight distribution) over rushing to where you’re trying to go.
There are seven exercises I recommend specifically for managing the difficulty walking due to ataxia in MS. Depending on your level of comfort, there are three sitting and four standing exercises that will strengthen your muscles and improve balance. For each of these exercises, repeat as many times as possible with good quality. To see an even larger list of exercises you can utilize for ataxia, MS symptoms, and support, check out my Youtube channel: Dr. Gretchen Hawley.
In addition to formal rehabilitation sessions, there are many practical tips that can help manage ataxia in everyday life. Simple modifications to the home environment, such as removing tripping hazards and installing handrails, can make all the difference in feeling confident to maneuver around your home.
Using assistive devices, like grab bars or a shower chair, can provide added support in areas where balance is challenged. Who hasn’t slipped in the shower before? It’s happened to me plenty of times. This is a huge recommendation I have for my clients just for peace of mind above all.
Lastly, a cane or walking device can be a huge help with outings in new environments. It’s essential to not let your MS symptoms control your life, so utilizing tools made specifically for stability can be huge confidence boosters to leave the house with less anxiety.
As a physical therapist specializing in MS, my goal is to support anyone experiencing the symptoms of MS on their journey to reclaiming independence. If you're looking to receive a wealth of information from myself (plus many other MS specialists!) read my book: The MSing Link. This guide is specifically meant to make the symptoms of MS feel more manageable, allowing you to take back control and live life to the fullest.
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Dr. Gretchen Hawley's The MSing Link offers a comprehensive guide to taking control of your MS symptoms and improving your mobility through MS-specific exercises and strategies.
6000+ copies sold in over 13 countries!
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As a physical therapist & Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist, I have spent the last 10 years teaching people with MS how to feel more confident & empowered through MS-specific exercises and strategies.
If you want support and encouragement, plus a healthy dose of tough love, come follow me on Instagram (@doctor.gretchen) or on YouTube @DoctorGretchenHawley. It's where I share daily tips, tricks, and information about new offers — plus, you’re bound to feel more empowered, hopeful, & motivated after watching each post and video!
Questions? Email me at Hello@DoctorGretchenHawley.com