Today, I want to discuss one of the most common symptoms of MS - foot drop.
As a physical therapist specializing in multiple sclerosis (MS), I often encounter patients dealing with various challenges related to mobility. One common issue many MS patients face is foot drop, a condition where the foot does not lift properly during walking, leading to difficulties in balance and mobility.
In this post, I want to dive into what causes MS foot drop and discuss easy exercises to help regain and maintain mobility.
MS foot drop is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), which is when the muscles that lift the front part of the foot are weakened. This weakness impedes normal walking, causing those with foot drop to drag or slap their foot while in motion. This can become frustrating when it leads to balance issues and mobility limitations, but with a proper routine, there is a lot of hope to regain control of your daily life.
Foot drop can happen in different forms, including foot drop, foot slap, and foot drag. Foot drop occurs when the foot does not lift at all or lifts very little, resulting in landing on the toes or a flat foot. Foot slap, on the other hand, involves landing with the heel but creating a noticeable slap sound due to weakness or lack of control. Lastly, foot drag occurs when there is minimal ankle strength, causing the foot to drag along the ground during walking.
These variations in foot drop can really impact a person's ability to walk comfortably and safely. However, with targeted exercises and strategies, it is possible to address these challenges effectively.
MS foot drop is a difficult symptom of MS, but that does not mean it has to take over your life. With this simple exercise routine, we can strengthen your ankles and improve overall mobility together. For additional guidance, check out my MS foot drop video linked below.
Ankle-based exercises are crucial for strengthening the muscles involved in foot dorsiflexion. Seated exercises, which remove the element of balance, can be particularly beneficial. One effective exercise is practicing lifting the foot up and down while seated, focusing on maintaining good form and control.
Tightness in the calf muscles often contributes to foot drop. Stretching the calf regularly can help alleviate this tightness and improve ankle flexibility. A simple calf stretch involves extending one leg straight out while seated and using a strap or towel to gently pull the toes towards you, feeling the stretch in the calf muscle (the back of your lower leg).
While exercises are an excellent way to help strengthen the muscles that cause weakness in the feet to occur, there are additional practices you can bring into your daily routine to improve daily function. As I like to say to my clients, it’s essential to consider your entire day, not just the hour or so you exercise.
While working on ankle strength and flexibility, it's essential to address compensatory movements involving the knee and hip joints. By bending the knee more during walking and incorporating marching exercises, individuals can compensate for ankle weakness and improve their overall gait pattern.
In addition to specific exercises, it's crucial to practice walking with good quality and form. This includes implementing strengthening and stretching techniques into daily activities whenever possible. Whether it's exaggerating marching movements or focusing on bending the knee while walking, incorporating these strategies into daily routines can lead to significant improvements in mobility.
For those experiencing MS foot drop, using a mobility aid such as a cane can provide added support and stability. It's important to choose the appropriate aid and use it correctly. Typically, the cane should be held in the hand opposite to the weaker leg to provide optimal support and balance.
While these exercises and strategies can be beneficial, it's essential for individuals with MS foot drop to work closely with a physical therapist or healthcare professional. A customized exercise program tailored to individual needs and abilities can maximize the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts and promote long-term mobility and independence.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to work through the symptoms of MS check out my book - The MSing Link. We will talk about strategies surrounding foot drop, mobility, and so many other unique challenges to help you take back control of your life.
MS foot drop presents unique challenges, but with the right approach and dedication to exercise, mobility is possible. Remember, you are in the driver’s seat of your symptoms, not the other way around.
Have you ever felt unsteady or wondered if there’s a way to make walking easier on days when your body just doesn’t feel as strong? Trekking poles for MS can be the perfect solution! Check out how how these simple, adaptable poles can help make walking feel easier and more natural here.
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