Sign 8: Reduced Mobility
Life is movement. But for those living with MPS, this movement often comes with significant hurdles. Reduced mobility is a major symptom of MPS, born out of the skeletal deformities and joint stiffness that accompany the condition.
Difficulty in walking is a common manifestation. Simple tasks such as walking to the mailbox or climbing stairs can become a strenuous exercise. Coupled with this difficulty, a reduced range of motion is also common. Movements that most people take for granted, like reaching for an object on a shelf or bending down to tie a shoe, can become an ordeal.
Adding to these challenges is the frequent presence of pain during movement. This pain can vary in intensity, but it is a constant reminder of the skeletal and joint issues inherent in MPS. Over time, these mobility issues can become quite debilitating, severely impacting the person’s independence and quality of life.
The challenges to mobility in MPS are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With the help of physical therapy and mobility aids, these symptoms can be managed. Such interventions can enhance the person’s movement capabilities, providing a boost to their independence and overall quality of life. (8)
