Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects movement, coordination, and balance in ways that challenge both patients and their physical therapists. As mobility fluctuates from day to day, the right footwear becomes a crucial part of maintaining independence and reducing the risk of falls.
For therapists, recommending the best shoes for someone with multiple sclerosis isn’t just about comfort — it’s about helping clients move more safely and efficiently. Adaptive footwear, like Cadense, can bridge the gap between clinical needs and everyday usability, supporting gait rehabilitation and confidence beyond the therapy room.
MS can cause a wide range of gait irregularities:
- Foot drop, making it difficult to lift the front of the foot during walking
- Spasticity, leading to stiffness and uneven movement
- Fatigue, which can cause dragging, shuffling, or reduced stride length
- Balance issues, often resulting in instability or cautious walking patterns
These symptoms fluctuate, which means physical therapists must consider footwear that adapts to varying levels of strength, tone, and coordination. Traditional “orthopedic” shoes can be heavy or stiff, limiting rather than enabling movement. Adaptive shoes, however, provide flexibility, stability, and comfort — all vital for MS clients working toward mobility goals.
When recommending shoes for patients with multiple sclerosis, therapists should prioritize features that enhance balance, reduce fatigue, and simplify use.
- Wide, Stable Base
A stable sole helps reduce the risk of ankle rolling and supports proper alignment. Cadense shoes use a firm yet flexible base to provide steadiness without restricting motion.
- Lightweight Construction
Fatigue is one of the most common challenges in MS. Lightweight materials reduce energy expenditure during walking, making therapy sessions and daily activity more manageable.
- Rocker Sole Design
A subtle rocker profile encourages smoother transitions from heel to toe, helping compensate for foot drop or uneven stride mechanics.
- Easy On/Off Closures
Fine motor difficulties are common in MS, so adaptive closure systems — like magnetic straps or single-pull fasteners — promote independence while reducing frustration.
- Customizable Fit
Swelling or muscle tightness can change foot shape day to day. Adjustable uppers and removable insoles allow patients to modify fit and maintain comfort.
In physical therapy programs, adaptive footwear can be an extension of treatment itself. The best shoes for someone with multiple sclerosis help reinforce correct gait patterns and promote confidence during exercises.
- Improved Proprioception: Lightweight, supportive soles help clients sense ground contact more clearly, improving feedback during gait retraining.
- Reduced Compensatory Movement: Proper shoe alignment reduces the need for awkward hip lifts or exaggerated steps.
- Better Endurance: Comfort and energy efficiency allow patients to walk longer distances during therapy without excessive fatigue.
- Consistency Beyond the Clinic: When clients wear the same supportive shoes outside therapy, gains made in sessions are reinforced throughout the day.
Physical therapists often face a gap between what’s clinically ideal and what patients will actually wear. Many shoes that check the “support” box look bulky or medical, leading to poor compliance.
That’s why design matters. Adaptive shoes like Cadense integrate therapeutic features into modern, lifestyle-friendly silhouettes. Patients can wear them comfortably at home, in therapy, or in public without feeling self-conscious — increasing the likelihood of consistent use.
Therapists can encourage compliance by emphasizing not just the functional benefits, but how the right footwear supports dignity, independence, and self-image.
Cadense shoes are designed around three principles: comfort, adaptability, and balance support — all essential for those with MS.
- Flexible Stability: The dual-density sole stabilizes the foot without restricting movement.
- Adaptive Comfort: Stretchable uppers accommodate swelling or tightness.
- Slip-Resistant Outsoles: Improve traction for patients with balance issues.
- Effortless Entry: Hands-free or minimal-effort designs help clients with limited dexterity.
In clinical settings, therapists have found that Cadense shoes help clients walk with greater ease and confidence, particularly in programs focused on balance and gait rehabilitation.
For physical therapists, recommending the best shoes for someone with multiple sclerosis can mean the difference between progress and a plateau. Shoes that work with, not against, the body’s mechanics help patients focus on control rather than compensation.
By integrating adaptive footwear into your therapy recommendations, you give clients an everyday tool that reinforces your work — one that combines science, comfort, and dignity in every step.
Footwear may seem like a small part of a complex condition like MS, but for physical therapists, it’s a vital piece of the puzzle. When your clients wear shoes that support balance, stability, and independence, they’re better equipped to carry progress from the clinic into everyday life.
Adaptive footwear like Cadense empowers people with MS to move with greater safety and confidence — and that’s something every therapist strives to achieve.
Explore how Cadense can support your clients’ gait and balance therapy at Cadense.com.
![[color: all black] Original Men's Adaptive Shoe](http://cadense.com/cdn/shop/files/AllBlack-Mens-T1.jpg?crop=center&height=300&v=1732139020&width=300)
![[color: black] Original Men's Adaptive Shoe](http://cadense.com/cdn/shop/files/CadenseOriginalMensBlack-001.jpg?crop=center&height=300&v=1694621753&width=300)
![[color: white] Original Women's Adaptive Shoe](http://cadense.com/cdn/shop/files/CadenseOriginalWomensWhite-001.jpg?crop=center&height=300&v=1694622872&width=300)
