How MS Affects Your Feet
MS is a disease that damages the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This damage interferes with communication between the brain and muscles, leading to various symptoms including:
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the feet
- Muscle weakness or spasms in the feet and ankles
- Foot drop (difficulty lifting the front of the foot)
- Imbalance and reduced coordination
- Fatigue
These effects of MS can make walking, standing, and balancing quite challenging. But finding the optimal footwear can help stabilize your step, minimize fatigue, increase shock absorption, and provide arch support.
Features to Look For in MS Shoes
Here are some of the key features and components to look for when shopping for the best shoes for multiple sclerosis:
Ankle Support
Many people with MS experience foot drop, which is the inability to lift the front of the foot due to weak ankle muscles or dorsiflexors. Shoes with built-in ankle support will help stabilize your ankle and make it easier to walk.
Rigid Heel Counter
A firm heel counter is a rigid piece of material that cups the back of the heel. It helps hold the rearfoot in proper alignment and provide stability.
Rockered Sole
A rockered or rounded sole helps guide your foot through the walking motion, facilitating the heel-to-toe transition. This promotes a natural gait pattern.
Cushioning
Ample cushioning in both the heel and forefoot absorbs impact and shock, reducing pain and fatigue.
Orthotics
Custom orthotic inserts provide arch support, cushioning, and stability right where you need it. They can be fitted to your individual foot issues.
Removable Insoles
Removable insoles allow you to take out the existing lining and replace it with your own custom orthotics.
Low Heel Height
A lower heel places your foot in a more stable position compared to high heels which shift weight forward on the balls of the feet.
Wide & Deep Toe Box
A roomy toe box allows toes to spread out naturally without crowding together. This prevents rubbing and irritation.
Lightweight Materials
Shoes made of lightweight, breathable materials reduce weight burden and keep your feet cooler.
Easy Closure System
Velcro, buckles, or slip-on styles make shoes easy to put on if you have dexterity issues with your hands and fingers.
The Best Shoe Styles for Multiple Sclerosis
Now that you know what features to look for, here is an overview of some of the best shoe styles for achieving comfort and support if you have MS:
Walking Shoes
Walking shoes offer maximum cushioning and shock absorption thanks to their thick, supportive midsoles. Models like Brooks Addiction Walker provide excellent arch support and stability to the ankles. Lightweight athletic styles are also great for people managing MS symptoms.
Running Shoes
Running or cross-training shoes provide cushioning and support for low to moderate activity levels. Neutral cushioned models work well for mild overpronators while stability shoes are ideal if you have flat feet. Hokas are a popular option.
Orthopedic Shoes
Orthopedic shoes are designed to accommodate foot abnormalities and specialized inserts. They have a roomy toe box, extended sizing options, and maximum foot support features. Orthofeet, PW Minor and Drew shoes cover this category.
Custom Orthotics
For the ultimate in personalized fit and support, having custom orthotics made is a great choice. A podiatrist will examine your feet, identify any biomechanical issues, and design an insert or insole to place inside your shoes.
Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs)
AFOs are rigid braces that surround the ankle and foot to provide support, stabilize your walk, and prevent foot drop. They are frequently used to assist mobility in MS patients. There are various designs from clamshell braces to spring-hinged styles.
Therapeutic Shoes
People with severe MS symptoms may qualify for therapeutic shoes through Medicare. A doctor determines medical need. Once approved, you can get 1 pair of diabetic or depth shoes and 3 pairs of insertsonce per calendar year. They help prevent ulceration and other complications.
8 Steps to Finding the Best MS Shoes
Follow this 8 step guide to find the most suitable pair of shoes to match your comfort and support needs:
1. Analyze Your Symptoms
Consider your specific MS symptoms and how they impact your feet. Make note of any numbness, tingling, spasticity, foot drop, ankle weakness, arch problems, swelling, or pains. This will help identify the features you need most.
2. Check the Size & Fit
Be precisely measured every time you buy new shoes since feet change over time. Try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen. There should be about 1/2 to 1 inch space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
3. Evaluate the Heel
Walk around and make sure the heel cup keeps your foot stable and centered. There should be no sliding up and down if the fit is right.
4. Assess Arch Support
Press on the inside ball of your foot to see if there is adequate arch support. You should not feel pressure or the arch collapsing. If needed, add supportive insoles.
5. Check Motion Control & Stability
Try walking, turning side to side, and pivoting to observe how your foot responds. The shoe should provide good medial/lateral stability without your foot sliding around.
6. Analyze the Toe Box
Wiggle your toes - there should be plenty of room for them to move. Make sure they don't hit the front of the shoe when walking.
7. Evaluate the Weight
Heavy shoes can quickly cause fatigue. Find the lightest shoe that still provides enough support - this may require trying on several pairs.
8. Break Them In Slowly
Wear new shoes at home for short periods at first to allow adjustment. Check for any rubbing spots. Slow break-in helps prevent blisters.
Other Tips for Managing MS Foot Pain
Along with appropriate footwear, there are a few other suggestions for keeping your feet as comfortable as possible while dealing with multiple sclerosis:
- Wear seamless socks to avoid irritation
- Apply lubricating foot creams to hydrate dry skin
- Do foot stretches and exercises to maintain flexibility
- Elevate legs when sitting to minimize swelling
- Consider custom orthotics for additional arch support
- Use shoe inserts to cushion pressure points
- Keep feet warm to reduce numbness or tingling
- Get massages and regular foot checkups
Shop Smart for the Best MS Shoes
Finding the right pair of shoes plays an important role in managing multiple sclerosis symptoms affecting your feet and mobility. Keep these tips in mind as you shop around for styles that offer ample cushioning, support, stability and comfort. Give different brands and models a try until you discover your perfect match.
With the proper footwear and a few additional foot care strategies, you can keep your feet feeling better as you move through each day with multiple sclerosis. Don't hesitate to consult a podiatrist if you need help finding solutions for any foot pain or problems.
Keywords: best shoes for multiple sclerosis
FAQs
What are the most important features to look for in shoes for multiple sclerosis?
Key features include good ankle support, a rigid heel counter, rockered/rounded sole, ample cushioning, removable insoles for custom orthotics, low heel height, wide/deep toe box, lightweight materials, and easy closure systems like velcro.
What shoe styles tend to work best for people with MS?
Some of the top options include walking shoes, running/athletic shoes, orthopedic shoes, custom orthotics, ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), and Medicare approved therapeutic shoes.
Should I see a podiatrist about foot pain related to MS?
Yes, consulting a podiatrist is recommended. They can thoroughly evaluate your feet, recommend optimal footwear and orthotics, and provide customized solutions to relieve pain and improve mobility.
What else can I do besides wearing proper shoes to manage MS foot symptoms?
Other tips include wearing seamless socks, applying moisturizing creams, doing foot stretches and exercises, elevating your legs when sitting, using shoe inserts, keeping feet warm, and getting massages and regular foot checkups.
How often should I replace my shoes if I have MS?
Plan to replace your shoes every 6 months or so. MS can cause rapid changes in your feet, so regularly evaluating proper shoe fit is important. Don't wait for shoes to show obvious wear.
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.
Add Comment