Numbness in the feet and legs is a real challenge when it comes to driving safely with MS. It can make it hard to feel the pedals properly, which may lead to pressing the wrong one or applying too much or too little pressure. It's a concern many people with MS share.
A MyMSTeam member described it this way: "The numbness Show Full Answer
Numbness in the feet and legs is a real challenge when it comes to driving safely with MS. It can make it hard to feel the pedals properly, which may lead to pressing the wrong one or applying too much or too little pressure. It's a concern many people with MS share.
A MyMSTeam member described it this way: "The numbness in my feet meant I couldn't feel the pedals. I started pressing the accelerator instead of the brake." There are some strategies that may help make driving safer when dealing with numbness:
- Switch feet — Some people use their left foot to operate the pedals instead of their right. Keep in mind that left-foot braking can sometimes mean slower reaction time to hazards.
- Drive with both feet — Some find this gives them more control, especially with foot drop.
- Choose the right footwear — Shoes that fit well, have good support, a roomy toe box, and non-slip soles can help with pedal control.
- Avoid peak traffic times — Less traffic means less pressure and more time to react.
- Keep trips short — Limiting drive time can reduce the risk of symptoms worsening mid-trip.
It's also worth speaking with an occupational therapist who specializes in driving — they can assess your situation and suggest the safest approach tailored to you. If numbness is getting worse or harder to manage, talking to a neurologist or MS specialist about symptom management options is a good step. Safety — yours and everyone else's on the road — always comes first.
June 28
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