May is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

Some of you may be wondering, what is multiple sclerosis (MS) and how does it have an effect on your body? MS can occur at any age, however the disease usually is diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. It is an autoimmune disease whereby the body attacks the myelin sheath covering the nerves, interrupting how the brain communicates with the body. The amount of damage that has occurred and the specific nerves affected will determine the symptoms that may be present. Some of the common symptoms are: 

• Weakness 
• Tremors 
• Lack of coordination or unsteady gait 
• Mobility concerns and gait deviations 
• Vision issues 
• Slurred speech 
• Fatigue 
• Dizziness 
• Tingling/numbness or pain 

Unfortunately there is no cure for MS, however there are treatments that can help speed up recovery after an MS attack or manage chronic long term symptoms. Symptom management is multifaceted and may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, medications and/or assistive devices. Orthotic bracing can help improve mobility, eliminate gait deviations, decrease the risk of falls, reduce pain and decrease the risk of developing pressure sores. The most common mobility concerns individuals with MS experience include but are not limited to: 

• Foot drop – weakness of the dorsiflexor muscles in the leg (which act to raise a person’s foot upwards), often resulting in tripping 
• Knee instability – knee buckling or hyperextending 
• Hip flexor weakness – increases the difficulty to swing a person’s limb through, often resulting in tripping 

If you have any questions about MS, orthotic intervention or would like a complimentary consultation with our clinicians please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones achieve the ability to live the life you want to live.

 

The Custom Orthotics Team (519) 850-4721 | office@customorthoticsoflondon.com | @cool_bracing