Assisted Walking Techniques to Improve Mobility with Multiple Sclerosis

Using Assisted Walking Techniques to Improve Mobility with Multiple Sclerosis

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can make walking and movement challenging due to symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, numbness, and balance problems. However, various assisted walking techniques and tools can help improve mobility and make walking easier for people with MS.

Understanding MS and How It Affects Walking

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that damages the myelin sheath protecting the nerves. This interferes with communication between the brain and body, leading to various symptoms. Weakness, numbness, tremors, spasticity, fatigue, dizziness, and problems with balance and coordination are common.

These symptoms negatively impact mobility in various ways. Leg weakness and spasticity make it difficult to walk properly. Fatigue causes mobility to deteriorate as the day goes on. Numbness in the legs or feet increases risk of tripping. Balance problems also make walking challenging.

Using Supportive Devices for Stability and Balance

Supportive devices like canes, walkers, and crutches can provide much needed stability for those with MS who struggle with walking balance. Options include:

• Standard canes - Provide extra support on one side.
• Quad canes - Offer stability on all four sides.
• Walkers - Wheeled walkers allow resting weight on the frame.
• Forearm crutches - Useful for those with hand weakness or numbness.
• Knee scooters - Non-weight bearing option for leg injuries.

Physical therapists can help determine the most appropriate supportive device based on factors like strength, balance issues, and areas of weakness or numbness. Using proper technique is key for effectiveness and safety.

Trying Assisted Walking Methods

Various assisted walking techniques allow someone to provide stability and support during walking. Some methods include:

• Side-by-side - Helper walks beside the person, letting them hold their arm for support.
• Forearm grasp - Person holds helper's forearms, facing them as they walk.
• Behind - Helper stands behind person and holds their waist as they walk.
• Front - Person holds helper's shoulders from front as they walk.
• Two sided - Helpers stand on both sides, holding under arms for support.

Trying different positions finds the most comfortable option. Make sure helpers are strong enough to provide steady support and communicate cues effectively.

Incorporating Assistive Orthotics

Braces called orthotics provide extra joint stability and support proper walking biomechanics. Options for those with MS include:

• Ankle-foot orthotic - Maintains foot and ankle at proper angle.
• Knee-ankle-foot orthotic - Spans knee to foot to improve alignment.
• Hinged knee brace - Provides knee stability and support.
• Hand orthotic - Stabilizes wrist and maximizes hand function.

An orthotist will evaluate gait and fit the appropriate device. Orthotics should feel snug but not uncomfortable. Break them in gradually to allow adjustment to the feel.

Trying Aquatic Therapy and Water Exercises

Doing exercises in a warm therapeutic pool is an excellent way to improve mobility for those with MS. Benefits include:

• Water provides gentle resistance during exercises.
• Buoyancy reduces impact on joints.
• Warmth relaxes muscles and eases stiffness.
• Helps improve strength, balance and coordination.

Aquatic therapy programs provide guided exercise routines using the water’s benefits. Simple exercises like walking laps, kicking, marching or doing leg raises in the pool can also aid mobility.

Using Walking Poles for Balance and Support

Walking poles, also called trekking or hiking poles, improve stability much like a cane or crutch. Benefits include:

• Increase balance by widening base of support.
• Absorb impact through arms rather than knees.
• Provide upper body workout to increase overall endurance.
• Give outlet for hand tension caused by MS symptoms.
• Offer stability on uneven terrain during hiking.

When using walking poles, make sure to use proper posture and hand positioning. Consult with a physical therapist to learn correct technique.

Considering Emerging Technologies

Cutting-edge technologies are being adapted to help improve mobility for people with MS. Options include:

• Electrical stimulation devices to activate muscles.
• Robotic exoskeletons to support joints and enable movement.
• Mobile apps to monitor gait and provide biofeedback.
• Virtual reality programs to gamify mobility therapy.

While still relatively new, these emerging technologies show promise for supporting MS mobility. Discuss options with your medical providers.

Improving Mobility for Better Quality of Life

Walking difficulties should not prevent people with MS from maintaining active lifestyles. Various assisted walking techniques, mobility devices, aquatic exercises, and emerging technologies provide ways to improve stability, balance, strength and endurance. Working with knowledgeable medical providers allows finding the optimal solutions for better mobility.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.