Falls: managing the ups and downs of MS
In April 2008, the MS Trust published a new book that takes a practical look at what can be done to help cope with a problem familiar to many people with multiple sclerosis.
Falling is the commonest cause of accidental injury in the UK, with more than 2.7 million people affected each year. Falls can happen to anyone irrespective of age or medical condition, although some of the symptoms of MS can increase the risk.
The book looks at factors that increase the risk of falling and includes tips and suggestions for reducing the dangers. There is also a section on the fear of falling and information on how to remain safe should you have a fall.
Falls was written in conjunction with Wendy Hartland, an MS Specialist Nurse in Coventry. She says: "In describing ways to cope with falls, we hope this book will help people with MS to remain safe without imposing unnecessary limitations on day to day activities."
Sarah Joiner was diagnosed with MS at the age of 21 and has taken her fair share of falls. She said: "At 21 I was mortified if I fell over in public. Would people think I'd been drinking or wearing silly vertiginous heels just for the sake of fashion? When you're 21, you want so much to belong to the crowd, you totter along, refusing to have a stick or help.
"Acceptance and gaining confidence has allowed me to master the falling potential and put it in perspective. The heels had to go, sadly, and using a stick made it very clear to everyone I wasn't a secret drinker.
"Now, through management of my situation and environment, I am able to factor in all the potential risks for falls. I do a mental risk assessment for every new location. I've been doing it for so long now, its second nature."
Chris Jones, chief executive of the MS Trust, adds: "We talk to so many people whose fear of falling has meant not only unnecessary loss of independence but caused them to become virtually housebound. Our new book is full of really useful information and ideas to reduce the risk of falling and boost self-confidence. It's practical with lots of clear advice."
Order, download or read Falls: managing the ups and downs of MS here