These Mobility Devices Change Everything

The top reason to use a mobility device? Safety. Because MS symptoms like weakness, imbalance, and spasticity can make walking a struggle, the risk of falls increases; in fact, about half of middle-aged and older people with MS experience at least one fall over a half-year period. “Injuries due to falls can be devastating because during the time of recovery, physical decompensation can occur that may prove difficult to come back from,” explains Jacqueline F. Rosenthal, M.D., a neurologist at the Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute in Atlanta, GA.

Whether you’re going for a stroll or maneuvering through a restaurant, the right walking device will help you move around with less energy. And energy is like gold when you have MS, with fatigue affecting 80% of people with the condition, says the National MS Society. “When motor impairment is present, it takes more energy to get from point A to point B,” says Dr. Rosenthal. “By providing assistance with mobility, patients are better able to get around without fatiguing as early.” Keep reading to learn about your walking device options.

Walking sticks and canes may not seem flashy, but they are a tried-and-true way to move around more easily with MS. Look for one with a rubber stopper on the bottom so it doesn’t slide when you put weight on it, and make sure it’s the proper height, says Kathy Zackowski, Ph.D., an occupational therapist and neuroscientist who serves as senior director of Patient Management, Care and Rehabilitation Research for the National MS Society. “As a rule, the top of the cane should reach to where your jeans pocket would be, so your hand can hold the cane with a little bit of bend in the elbow.”

Trekking poles ($20 to $200)—yep, the same kind you might see on hiking trails—can be used anywhere you need more support than a regular cane can provide, as you carry one in each hand. We recommend adding a pair of rubber tips to prevent them from slipping and keep you stable during indoor use. If you’re feeling uncomfortable with the idea of using a cane, trekking poles could be a great choice—the association with hiking and exercise makes some people feel this option is less stigmatizing, says Zackowski.

For people with MS who want to get outside and move but struggle with balance issues, a special piece of exercise equipment like the Afari ($1,875) can help. The Afari uses three large bicycle wheels so it can easily go over diverse terrain. Another unique option is the Alinker ($1,977), which is a non-motorized three-wheeled walking bike developed in Canada for people who have mobility challenges. There aren’t any pedals, so you propel yourself by walking forward from a seated position.

For a bit more support, crutches are another option—but traditional ones can hurt the underarms. Enter the more comfortable forearm crutches ($25-$280). “These have a handle that will grip your forearm so you can let go of the top without it falling to the floor,” explains Zackowski. This gives you more freedom to move your hands around. Again, it’s super important that these are fitted to your height, or else it could hurt your shoulders, she warns. A doctor, physical therapist, or occupational therapist can help ensure the perfect fit.

Walkers ($30 to $430) are especially helpful if you have issues with balance or gait. The benefit of a walker or rollator (a walker with wheels) versus a cane is that they provide support for both hands, improving stability, says Zackowski. And with wheeled options, you don’t have to pick it up each time you take a step. Another point in the “pro” column for this option is that many rollators have a seat built in. “You can lock the wheels and use it as a place to take a rest, which is great if you run out of energy before you reach your destination and need a break.”

Wheelchairs ($100 to $4,000) can help you stay mobile from a seated position and come in manual and motorized versions. This is a good option if you’re not able to walk independently without fatigue or fear of falling. “Some people even like walking with a manual wheelchair in front of them instead of a walker,” says Zackowski. “You can use it kind of like a grocery cart to put stuff in as well. It’s a clunkier option, but it’s not going to fall over and will keep you stable.”

The device you use depends on your activities and changing symptoms. For example, those with relapsing-remitting MS may only need their device when in a relapse, says Zackowski. “It is best to be evaluated by a physical therapist who can complete a full assessment and then make recommendations,” says Dr. Rosenthal. Finally, Zackowski recommends using your device to shows off your personality, whether it’s your favorite color or dressed up with jewels. Remember: This tool isn’t a death sentence, it’s your key to continuing to live a full life.

For many MSers, a walking device could be a game-changer. “Walking equates to independence in many ways for people with MS,” says Zackowski. “Think about your walking device as a tool to keep doing what you’re doing without being so tired or worried about falling.” Plus, the more people are willing to try these tools, the quicker the stigma will fade, she says. “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard someone say, ‘I can’t believe it took me so long to use a cane or walker, but it’s so helpful.’”