Hi,
I’ve just got my first proper mobility problem, which is foot drop in L foot. Can still raise toes, but big toe weak. Ankle joint won’t flex up.
It’s all a bit bizarre since I hiked nearly 30k a week ago with no problems. I think it might have been brought on by long periods spent kneeling on flagstones raking out pointing.
Anyway, I have a walking holiday coming up and am wondering whether to give up and cancel - would still lose most of this year’s “holiday” savings. Difficult as know idea whether this will last another 10 minutes/3 months/for ever.
Also wondering about orthotics.
Has anyone used orthotics to run or hike successfully? Also, I’m really short - “one size” will not fit - has anyone found a good source of custom-fit orthotics?
I’m sorry you’re experiencing this symptom at present. I experienced it when I had a relapse back in August. I was seen by the integrated neurology team physiotherapist who recommended some exercises and she organised a foot brace from orthotics which comes in 2 parts, 1 parts fits around your ankle and the 2nd part fits in your shoe behind the laces then you clip them together. It stops you tripping over your toes. I’ve noticed ive not regained anymore flexibility in the ankle and I’m now dealing with spasticity in both legs and left arm. The foot brace should assist with your walking, I don’t know what it’s like in your area, but in mine it’s a long process getting the support. I’ve also found exercises online to assist, and have found using static bike has helped.
A Boxia would be quick and might help, but not at all confident that it it would stand up to the demands of a walking holiday. Orliman | Boxia™ Drop Foot AFO
The best solution I have found is the ingenious FES, although you would need to be referred for assessment first to see if it suits you. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) | MS Trust
I think it is a bit of a stretch to suggest either option will get you running again, or even walking on rough terrain, and probably worth seeking the advice of a physio. Foot drop | MS Trust
Hopefully, the problem isn’t too bad and you find a workable solution.
*** Just noticed you use UCH at Queens Square. Are you aware they have an excellent walking clinic? MS Walking Clinic : University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Well, that’s a nasty shock to the system. I hope that you’re right and turns out to be a blip resulting from the work you’ve been doing. That definitely can happen with in my experience, although it’s fair to say that such episodes tend to reveal underlying deficit/damage in the affected area. Those kind of things can suddenly reveal themselves temporarily when there’s not enough slack in the system to cope with an extra stressor like hot conditions or over exertion. I’m really sorry that you have this extra worth to deal with. I know that sinking feeling well.
Yes, I think it’s very plausible that my amateur re-pointing did set this off - but that it’s also a sign of underlying damage. I thought weight lifting was supposed to be beneficial - wish I could turn back the clock.
Saw the GP today, he carried out a rather inconclusive neuro exam - just revealed the weaknesses I was aware of - it’s not clear whether this is peripheral neuropathy or MS.
It’s hard not to obsess about “trying out” the ankle in case it has miraculously recovered - the one previous motor thing I had vanished in about a minute.
Thanks for the Queen Square tip - I’ve emails their ms line so will see what they say.