3. Difficulty Walking or Maintaining Balance: Myelopathy’s Impact on Mobility
Our balance is something we often take for granted. From the time we’re toddlers and take those first wobbly steps, our bodies learn the intricacies of balance. However, for someone grappling with myelopathy, maintaining that equilibrium becomes a challenge.
Walking is a complex activity. It requires coordination between the brain, the spinal cord, and the muscles. It’s a rhythm, a dance of sorts.
When myelopathy starts affecting an individual, this dance becomes disrupted. The feet might not lift as high, leading to tripping. Or the person might sway from side to side, unable to maintain a straight line.
It isn’t just the physical act of walking that’s impacted. It’s also the confidence. Many people with advanced myelopathy develop a fear of walking, scared of tripping, falling, and injuring themselves. This can lead to a decrease in physical activity, which can have other health implications. (3)
