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4 Types of Multiple Sclerosis

Posted by:

Johannes Sauer

Reviewed by:

Jennie Stanford

Updated at: September 05, 2024

Table of Contents

  1. What is Multiple Sclerosis?

    1. Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS)

    2. Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)

    3. Primary-Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)

    4. Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)

  2. Living with Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is one common cause of foot drop and difficulties walking. In this post, we will explain the different types of multiple sclerosis, and offer recommendations for how you can improve your gait while living with MS.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune condition. The body’s immune system attacks and damages the myelin sheaths that are supposed to protect your nerves. 

This results in central nervous system (CNS) symptoms such as numbness, fatigue, poor coordination, cognitive issues, foot drop and unnatural gait, blurry or double vision, tingling sensations, nerve pain, and others. Walking tests are often used to assess how severe MS is getting.

The National MS Society reports that 2.9 million people around the world have MS. Around four times as many women as men have MS.

Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS)

Jul 30, 2024

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is the initial diagnosis in 85% of patients with MS. It is a form of MS where periods of heightened symptoms alternate with periods of remission. 


Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) is a type of MS that is likewise characterized by alternating remissions and flares. What differentiates it from RRMS is that it is progressive. 

Most patients with RRMS go on to develop SPMS. 25% of patients progress within the first 10 years. Half progress within 20 years. Three quarters progress within 30 years. 

Primary-Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)

While 85% of patients initially are diagnosed with RRMS, 15% are diagnosed with primary progressive MS. As the name suggests, it is progressive from the start, rather than having to develop into a progressive condition later. A PPMS diagnosis is most likely during one’s 40s or 50s.

Unlike RRMS and SPMS, PPMS is equally common in men and women. 

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)

Sometimes a patient experiences an isolated symptom flare that we call “clinically isolated syndrome,” or CIS. Around 70% of the time, CIS leads to an eventual MS diagnosis. Women are affected by CIS at a rate 2-3 times that of men.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis

If you have MS, you will work with your doctor on a treatment plan. You also will need to make changes to your lifestyle that incorporate a healthy diet and exercise. Walking and even running with MS is possible. You will need the right shoes (more on that shortly) and techniques. In addition, you will need to manage sleep issues well enough to get adequate rest.

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FAQ

How does MS affect daily life?

Patients with MS may struggle with fatigue, pain and discomfort, and a range of neurological symptoms. The exact symptoms and severity can vary a lot from patient to patient. 

Which type of MS most affects walking?

Any type of MS can potentially affect walking. The more the disease progresses, the more likely it is to lead to issues with walking and other symptoms. 

How does Cadense provide support for MS sufferers?

If you want to walk safely and comfortably, you will need shoes for MS. You can also use walking aids such as canes and crutches. 

Cadense Original Adaptive Shoes for men and women feature patented variable friction technology. This feature allows the wearer to “glide” over uneven surfaces. This is important for people with MS, because they may have foot drop, a condition that makes it difficult to lift the front parts of the feet fully when walking. 

Cadense shoes enhance safety, helping to prevent trips and falls, and fit comfortably. Their lightweight materials reduce fatigue, which can also be a big help to patients with MS.

Does walking become easier with adaptive shoes?

Yes, walking with MS can become easier when wearing adaptive shoes. The wide, stable base of Cadense shoes helps to increase stability, and the patented variable friction technology lets you walk with a more natural gait. 

In addition, just practicing walking on a regular basis can lead to improvements in foot drop in many cases. Talk with your doctor or physical therapist about the best approaches to treating both MS and foot drop. Although MS cannot be cured at this time, with the right treatment plan tailored to your needs, you can learn to manage MS. 

Posted by: Johannes Sauer

Johannes is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cadense and passionate about helping people with walking difficulties. Johannes is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cadense and passionate about helping people with walking difficulties. He was immediately drawn to the mission of the company because his cousin lost his lower leg in a tragic motorcycle accident a few years ago and is experiencing walking difficulties ever since. Johannes brings over a decade of experience in working for consumer product companies to Cadense. He holds an MBA from the University of Graz in Austria. Johannes lives with his family in Santa Barbara, CA.

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Reviewed by: Jennie Stanford

Dr. Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM, is a highly accomplished physician who has made significant contributions to the fields of obesity medicine and metabolic health. Her expertise and dedication to patient care have earned her a reputation as a leading authority in these areas. Dr. Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM, is a highly accomplished physician who has made significant contributions to the fields of obesity medicine and metabolic health. Her expertise and dedication to patient care have earned her a reputation as a leading authority in these areas. After obtaining her Doctor of Medicine degree from the prestigious University of Mississippi Medical Center, Dr. Stanford went on to achieve board certification from both the American Board of Obesity Medicine and the American Board of Family Medicine. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Stanford is a prolific medical writer and educator. She leverages her expertise to create informative and engaging content that educates both healthcare professionals and the general public about the latest advances in obesity medicine and metabolic health. Her written works, which include articles, blog posts, and educational materials, have been widely published and have helped to raise awareness about the importance of preventing and treating obesity and related metabolic disorders. As a recognized leader in her field, Dr. Jennie Stanford continues to advance the understanding and treatment of obesity and metabolic disorders. Her tireless efforts to educate, mentor, and provide exceptional patient care serve as an inspiration to her colleagues and a testament to her commitment to improving the lives of those affected by these conditions.

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