I've had gradually worsening symptoms for twenty years, which is why my neurologist thinks I have PPMS. In that time I've gone from occasionally catching a toe to needing a cane to walk. With my husband about to retire and be able to travel, I am looking for ways to maintain if not increase the mobility I have. I've recently embarked on a program of exercises from various physical therapists and think that I'm seeing some slight improvements. These are exercises to strengthen hamstrings and… read more
I had to drag my leg around due to weakness and food drop for 10 years. Though I did FINALLY "let" myself use a cane, then two canes, then two forearm crutches, a walker, and occasionally a wheelchair and a scooter just to keep moving. I'm using every ambulation equipment known to man I think. I continue to workout on most days at the gym. As it turns out, my abnormal gait caused me to develop a cyst on my L5-S1 that wasn't discovered for 18 months (of agony!). It also pretty much destroyed my lower lumbar. The massive amount of steroids I took for 30 years of RR flairs also exacerbated the deterioration of my lower lumbar. I religiously go to PT now, and my therapist took one look at me and immediately sent me to be fitted for an ankle-foot-orthotic (AFO). It's a custom brace that's fitted below the knee with a footplate that keeps your foot from dropping. It fits in my lace-up shoes with the insole removed. If I had it to do over again, I'd have gotten the AFO ten years ago and maybe I wouldn't be dealing with all of these secondary back problems. My suggestion to anyone with foot drop is go get an AFO and keep moving!
I think the comments about MS meds are spot on. I would also suggest trying themsgym.com which gets you moving and even focuses on areas you think are failing. I started with the gym and am feeling better than expected.
I think we 'msers' have talked to our bodies. You are not alone!
Are you asking if multiple sclerosis (MS) can cause damaged nerves, weak muscles, and tight tendons?
If so, the answer is:
- Damaged Nerves: MS can cause neuropathic pain due to damaged nerve fibers
- Weak Muscles: Muscle weakness is a common symptom of MS.
- Tight Tendons: Abnormal movements and muscle spasticity due to Show Full Answer
Hello RebeccaofRi,
Hope you’re as good in health as possible.
Just added you to my team.
Wish you all the best!
🤗💐🌈