Muscle weakness is commonly experienced by those with multiple sclerosis and can impact the health of your feet. Here's an overview of two foot problems you're at risk of developing if you have multiple sclerosis:

Flat Feet

The joints of your feet can be damaged when muscle weakness puts them under too much strain. When this happens, your foot arches can collapse as the supporting structures aren't strong enough to maintain the lift in the arches. Flat feet can cause foot pain when walking or standing, and you may also experience back pain due to postural changes that occur when your feet roll inwards as a result of the shape of your feet changing.

Flat feet can be treated with made-to-measure orthotic insoles. These insoles, which your podiatrist will order for you, lift the arches and reduce strain on your feet by altering the distribution of weight across your feet. They slip into your shoes, and your podiatrist will assess their effectiveness by observing you walk and noting changes to your symptoms and pain levels.

Hammer Toes

Muscle weakness can cause your toes to curl under by leaving the toe joints without appropriate support. The joints in the middle of your toes begin to lift up, and this forces the front of the affected toes to curl under. Walking can be both difficult and painful when you can't straighten your toes, and the curled toes can rub against the top of your shoes, which can lead to calluses forming.

Hammer toes can be treated with strengthening exercises and toe splints. You podiatrist will show you how to build the muscle strength in your toes using a series of focused movements, such as lifting small items with your toes. Toe splints consist of a soft loop of material secured to a flat base. The base sits under your foot and the material slips over your toes and holds them in a straight position. In time, your toes should begin to uncurl, but it's best to keep up the exercises to prevent a recurrence of the problem.

Podiatric care should be included in your healthcare regime to prevent manageable conditions causing you pain. If you're concerned about the health of your feet, schedule a foot exam with your podiatrist. They can assess the degree of damage to your feet and provide treatment. Additionally, if you just need some help with basic foot care tasks, the podiatrist will be happy to cut your nails and remove hard skin from your feet.