Foot posture after Multiple Sclerosis and functional consequences

Abstract

Clinical convention suggests that foot posture and movements are adversely affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and cause walking difficulties but there is little objective data to support or refute these beliefs. This study explores static foot posture in people with MS and their relationship to walking disability and limitations. This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted in the multiple scoliosis specialist department of Kashani Hospital in Isfahan on 44 patients with MS with mobility limitations. The indices for determining foot posture index (FPI), demographic characteristics, expanded disability status scale (EDSS), and walking scale(msws-12) were investigated. About one-third of participants had abnormal foot posture, which wasn’t associated with walking limitations. Most (80%) had a symmetrical foot posture with similar frequencies of supination (9%) and pronation (11/5/%) abnormalities. There was no relationship between foot posture and walking limitation and expanding disability. A minority of people with MS had abnormal or asymmetrical foot posture and equal numbers suffered pronation and supination abnormalities; these findings challenge the beliefs that underpin the clinical management of MS-related foot problems.