130,000 People in the UK Live with MS — How Modern Orthotics Improve Walking Confidence
Walking is something many of us do without thinking, until something disrupts that flow. For people with neurological conditions, walking to the shop or taking a stroll in the park can feel challenging.
The consistent worry of tripping or falling can lead to hesitance in leaving home and decreased confidence over time. Spotting this challenge is the first step toward helping people move better and feel calmer.
In the UK, over 130,000 people live with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This number is enough to fill Wembley Stadium and still leave 40,000 people waiting outside. A large group of people face different walking problems, from minor stumbles to serious difficulties.
MS is the main cause of disability without injury in young adults in Britain, which shows the urgent need for effective assistance. Improving walking skills is essential to helping thousands of people maintain their freedom and stay connected to their communities.
How MS Changes the Way You Move
Multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system, disrupting the signals between the brain and the muscles. This can cause muscle weakness and coordination problems in the legs.
Many people notice their muscles tire more quickly. This is called muscle fatigueability. For example, a walk may start off feeling normal, but after a few minutes, the legs can feel heavier, and lifting the feet becomes harder.
A common issue is foot drop, where the front part of the foot weakens and drags on the ground. This increases the dangers of tripping over uneven pavements or rugs. Joint instability in the knees and ankles can also make the body feel unsupported.
When the brain cannot count on the legs for a stable base, it alters the walking pattern. Although these changes help maintain balance, they can lead to hip and lower back pain due to poor alignment.
The Impact of Reduced Stability on Daily Life
Living with difficulty walking creates a challenging cycle. When stability decreases, fear of falling increases. This fear usually causes people to move less to avoid accidents. Unfortunately, moving less leads to weaker muscles, making walking even harder over time. This frustrating situation affects more than just the body.
Losing confidence in walking has a significant psychological impact. It can lead to social isolation and a loss of the joy that comes from being active. For the 130,000 people in the UK dealing with these issues, finding ways to stabilise their bodies and reduce the effort needed to walk is important.
Modern clinical interventions are making a difference by shifting from general support to using precision technology.
Advancements in Neurological Rehabilitation and Support
The field of orthotics has changed a lot in recent years. In the past, many individuals got heavy and uncomfortable braces that gave basic support but did not consider how MS affects walking. Now, the focus is on custom solutions that work with the body instead of just strapping onto it. Modern orthotics are lighter, durable, and much more discreet, so they easily fit into regular shoes.
Across the UK, specialist clinics are increasingly using data-led assessment tools to improve walking outcomes for people living with Multiple Sclerosis. Clinics offering specialist orthotics in Manchester, such as the London Orthotic Consultancy’s University of Salford centre, use on-site gait laboratory analysis and 3D scanning to assess walking patterns in detail before prescribing a bespoke orthotic device.
These technologies allow clinicians to measure joint movement, muscle control and alignment with precision, ensuring that support is added exactly where it is needed: not more, not less.
The Power of Gait Analysis and 3D Scanning
A gait laboratory is a special place where experts record how people move using high speed cameras and sensors. Instead of just watching someone walk down a hallway, clinicians can view a detailed digital map showing all the forces and angles at work.
For people with multiple sclerosis, this information is essential. It can show exactly when a knee starts to give way or when a foot begins to drag, even if these movements are too small for someone to see at the moment.
Technicians use 3D scanning technology to create accurate digital models of limbs, replacing messy plaster casts. The resulting orthotic devices fit the leg well. Specialised teams can adjust them to achieve the ideal balance of flexibility and stiffness.
This level of customisation helps a person walk more naturally, reducing the stiff feeling that older braces can sometimes cause.
Reclaiming Independence Through Better Stability
When a person feels stable on their feet, their world opens up. A well-fitted orthotic device boosts confidence by ensuring that the foot clears the ground and the ankle is supported, allowing the wearer to enjoy their surroundings rather than focusing on their feet.
Orthotics improve movement efficiency, conserving energy with each step, which is vital for managing MS-related fatigue. This energy preservation boosts stamina for social activities and hobbies. While MS is life-changing, it doesn’t have to limit an active life. With the right expertise and technology, remaining steady on your feet is possible.
Conclusion
The landscape of neurological care in the UK is evolving towards a personalised and data-driven approach. Moving from reactive to proactive biomechanical support is key for those with walking difficulties.
Advanced gait analysis and custom manufacturing provide support that reflects natural movement.
The future of mobility for people with MS lies in combining clinical skill with technological precision, enabling safe, confident walking for all.
