Symptom 3: Walking Difficulties – The Balance Bandit
Walking difficulties in RRMS are another manifestation of the damage caused to the nervous system. They often show up as an awkwardness or heaviness in one or both legs, an inability to lift the foot (often causing tripping), or a general feeling of instability.
Patients with RRMS might find that they need to focus more on their movements, taking care with each step to ensure they don’t fall. They might need to rely on aids such as canes or walkers, even at stages where this wouldn’t typically be expected. Some patients might also experience “drop foot,” a condition where it’s difficult to lift the front part of the foot, causing it to drag when walking.
Walking issues in RRMS can be further exacerbated by fatigue, which tends to worsen as the day progresses. They can also be influenced by temperature, with many patients reporting a worsening of symptoms during hot weather or after exercise. (3)
