Patients with multiple sclerosis are advised to walk with what type of gait?

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are advised to walk with a wide-based gait primarily to enhance their stability and reduce the risk of falls. MS can affect muscle control, coordination, and balance, leading to difficulties in ambulation. A wide-based gait allows individuals to widen their stance, providing a broader support base which fosters a greater sense of balance.

This adaptation helps compensate for any limb weakness or sensory deficits that patients may experience. By positioning their feet further apart, patients can achieve greater stability and minimize the likelihood of falls, a common concern in MS due to the progressive nature of the disease, which can result in unsteady movements.

The other types of gaits mentioned do not provide the same level of support or stability for MS patients. A narrow-based gait would not be advisable, as it increases the risk of loss of balance. Backwards and hunched gaits are also not conducive to stability and could further complicate movement for individuals with this condition. Therefore, a wide-based gait is the most appropriate choice for patients with multiple sclerosis.