Drop foot, also referred to as foot drop, is a side effect that you may sustain as a result of multiple sclerosis (MS). An individual with drop foot due to MS will drag their toes, and therefore they have a higher chance of falling due to their condition. The walking speed of this individual also decreases as a result of gait digression. Nevertheless, having drop foot is not the end of the road for the patient suffering from it, since there are ways that they can be helped to walk better again. Even though multiple sclerosis is chronic, the life expectancy for a patient suffering from this disorder can be normal or even close to normal. Prolonging independence and productivity is most paramount.

The amount of disability and discomfort that a patient incurs depends on some factors, which may include how often an individual gets attacks, as well as how severe they are. In addition, the area of the central nervous system that is affected by each attack will also determine the amount of discomfort and disability. The symptoms of a patient with the drop foot condition caused by MS include loss of balance, muscle spasms, problems with overall coordination, reduced range of motion of arms or legs, tremors, and weakness in extremities and numbness.

There are medical devices available today which patients with drop foot can use as walk aids which are an incredible help to them. These devices may be different in design although they are each developed to help an individual walk better. There’s the Ankle Foot Orthosis, which is a special brace, made of plastic that offers support to an individual while walking. However, it is important that if you are considering getting one of these, you get it from a licensed local. Each can fit into most people’s shoes. They only help put your foot up when you walk, although they also offer side to side support at the ankle and indirectly support the knee.

Another one of these devices that an individual suffering from drop foot due to MS can use is referred to as WalkAide. It is cleared for use by the FDA, and it functions by providing electrical stimulation which in turn helps activate the muscles to lift your foot better when you walk. It is a better and effective medical device, although not all individuals can use it; therefore, to determine whether you are a candidate for the WalkAide, consult a licensed local Orthotist.

The other device that a person suffering from drop foot due to multiple sclerosis can use is called the NESS L300 Foot Drop System, which uses low level electrical stimulation to stimulate the nerves and then send the message to the muscle to lift the foot. With this light-weight and non-invasive device, drop foot patients are able to regain function and increase mobility across varying terrains and up stairs. Also, clinical studies show that over time, it reduces the incidence of falls. This device is also cleared for use by the FDA and is endorsed by the American Physical Therapy Association and is CE-marked for the EU.



Al Ahumada is a writer and blogger whose focus is on foot drop (aka drop foot) healthcare issues, including the physical therapy, occupational therapy, and home rehabilitation needs of people who suffer with foot drop caused by central nervous system disorders such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and incomplete (not total) spinal cord injury. He has a special interest in advanced neuromodulation te