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Driving relies on your body’s ability to react to your surroundings. Although many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) drive safely after diagnosis, neuropathy (numbness and tingling) from MS can make driving more difficult. Other common symptoms of MS, including spasticity, muscle weakness, and vision problems, can also contribute to driving challenges.
Some MyMSTeam members have expressed concerns about how numbness from neuropathy affects their ability to drive. “My worry is whether or not my legs will go numb. I live in an area where it’s kind of essential to drive,” shared one member.
In this article, we’ll review some tips for driving with MS neuropathy, plus some possible solutions if it becomes unsafe.
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Although MS is generally considered a condition of the central nervous system, studies show it can also affect the peripheral nerves — those outside the brain and spinal cord. This can lead to a symptom called peripheral neuropathy, which involves numbness or weakness in the hands and feet.
One MyMSTeam member described how numb feet affected their ability to drive. “I’ve had to give up my driving license because my right leg gets numb, and I was either accelerating or braking too heavily.”
Here are a few strategies to help you manage safely behind the wheel if you’re losing sensation in your feet:
Some MyMSTeam members have said that if their right foot goes numb when driving, they drive with only their left foot. Others use two feet or drive with bare feet to help compensate for foot numbness.
One member said, “I found myself not braking correctly because I couldn’t convince my right foot to press the brake. I now drive with my left foot.”
Other members say they use both feet to operate their vehicle’s pedals. “I drive with two feet. Due to foot drop, my right leg is slow to respond. I feel safer this way,” shared one member.
There are risks associated with operating vehicle pedals differently. Don’t try these changes without professional guidance, because they may compromise your safety, affecting braking, reaction time, and pedal control.
One small study found risks associated with driving with either the compromised foot or the left foot. In this study, 37 percent of participants drove with their left foot after foot or ankle surgery.
Researchers found that participants who used their compromised right foot during driving simulations went over the speed limit and hit other vehicles more often than those who drove with their left foot. However, those who drove with their left foot took more time to fully brake in response to hazards.
There’s limited research about the safety of using two feet while driving an automatic transmission vehicle, but most safety experts don’t advise doing it.
If you’re having difficulty driving — before you change your driving technique or make adaptations — seek a comprehensive driving evaluation by a certified driver rehabilitation specialist or an occupational therapist with driving expertise.
You may want to consult a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist about shoes that may help you manage neuropathy. Choose footwear that’s comfortable and fits well, as too-tight shoes can make neuropathy symptoms worse. Thin, flat shoes make it easier to feel the pedals while driving.
One MyMSTeam member said that driving without shoes makes it easier to feel the pedals: “I wear flip-flops or slip-on shoes to drive. I take my right shoe off while driving to help me feel the pedals.”
Having your vehicle modified or installing adaptive equipment can make driving with MS easier.
A certified driver rehabilitation specialist can help assess whether modifications are appropriate. You should also check whether your state requires license restrictions, documentation, or additional testing when adaptive equipment is used.
Common modifications include:
Some MyMSTeam members have reported positive experiences with hand controls — rods that attach to the gas and brake pedals that you operate with your hands.
“I had hand controls fitted to my car two years ago. It was absolutely the best thing I have done,” one member shared. “I still don’t drive a lot or long distances, but I can now drive anytime rather than hoping my legs will work today!”
Another member installed a “push/rock system,” and explained: “You push the lever on the left forward to brake, and you rock it toward you to accelerate. On the steering wheel, you have a knob that allows you to steer the car. After a while, you get used to it. Your hand takes over the functions that your feet used to do.”
You may need training to learn to drive a modified vehicle, and you may have to pass a driving test to demonstrate you can effectively use the equipment.
“I went through driver’s training, which was a little scary at first,” shared one member. “You keep wanting to put your feet on the pedals, but they’re covered up by a plate. After six driving sessions, I was an expert and ready to have them installed in my car.”
The costs of modifying a vehicle can vary widely. One member paid about $5,000 for a few modifications but said they were worth the cost: “My right foot and leg became very unreliable. I couldn’t always tell if I was pushing hard enough on the brake.”
They continued, “I also had difficulty accurately placing my foot on the brake and then back to the gas. I was blessed to be able to learn how to drive using a rocker and spinner knob plus a pedal block. It cost us about $5,000.”
You may be able to find financial assistance to help with costly modifications. Your car and health insurance providers may cover some adaptive equipment for your vehicle.
You also can reach out to local nonprofit organizations and government agencies for financial support. “For those looking into hand controls, I got some financial assistance from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society,” a MyMSTeam member shared.
If all else fails, ask the car dealership about options such as low-interest financing to help fund your adaptive equipment expenses. Additionally, some states waive the sales tax on a modified vehicle when a doctor’s prescription is provided.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, the safest option may be to stop driving entirely. This isn’t an easy decision to make. Nonetheless, MyMSTeam members who have made this choice feel it’s what’s best for themselves and others.
“I had to give up my license because I couldn’t feel how much pressure I was putting on the gas or brakes. I’m so afraid I’ll get into an accident and hurt someone,” wrote one member.
They continued, “The last time I drove, I hit a concrete post at a food store even though I felt like I was standing on the brake. On the way home, I couldn’t get the truck to go the speed limit, and other drivers were getting mad.”
“I just recently gave up my license,” another member shared. “It was a long and hard decision. I still teach three days a week and get a lift there and back. I didn’t want to put anyone in danger.”
It’s important to make sure you’re safe while operating a motor vehicle. However, most states don’t require reporting neuropathy to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
If you’re having doubts about your driving ability, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider to assess whether it’s time to find other means of transportation.
People often worry about losing their freedom if they give up their driver’s license. Members of MyMSTeam have ways to stay mobile, including using public transportation and getting help from friends.
“I moved to a new place in a more convenient area near the city,” one member wrote. “I enjoy public transit and meet lots of people with my bus pass. I maintained my independence and eliminated the stress of a possibly fatal car accident.”
Another said they accept rides and help from loved ones. “Some people look for ways to be generous. Let them! Just say thanks, and pay for gas or take them to lunch.”
You might also look into ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft, which allow you to book cars from your phone or computer and may have special services for people with disabilities.
If your numbness continues or gets worse during a flare-up, seek medical advice from a healthcare professional to help manage your MS symptoms. Remember that it can be dangerous if your feet or hands go numb while driving, so make safety a priority before getting behind the wheel.
On MyMSTeam, people share their experiences with multiple sclerosis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
Have you experienced numbness getting in the way of driving? Let others know in the comments below.
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the pulled tooth , has created a boomerang effect for Ms s show still 2weeks later walking swallowing lifting difficultly
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I stopped driving , not only because of leg neuropathy but more specifically a loss of mental acuity.
When I concentrate too long on one issue, I tend to get sleepy and so don't have the necessary… read more
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