From Foot Drop to Forward Steps: Suzanne’s MS Journey with FES

Suzanne Miller’s journey with Multiple Sclerosis began in 2014, when she noticed a persistent limp that just wouldn’t go away. At first, it seemed minor — something that might resolve on its own. But as weeks passed and nothing improved, she visited her GP. After a series of tests, including scans and a lumbar puncture, Suzanne was diagnosed with Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis.

At the time, the impact was limited to her right foot, where she had developed foot drop. Over time, her condition worsened, eventually affecting both feet and walking unaided became impossible.

“I’ve been using an NHS Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) device for 9 years,” said Suzanne. “It helped, but it had so many wires; it took forever to put on and take off”. The daily challenges added up; simple things like getting dressed or going to the toilet became stressful and difficult. “I basically lived in trousers for years because it was impossible to wear a dress with all those wires”, added Suzanne.

But Suzanne pushed through because she had no choice. “Without FES, I wouldn’t be able to walk. Honestly, I’d have to walk backwards to get anywhere”, said Suzanne.

Suzanne came across someone demonstrating the exopulse suit on YouTube. Curious, she arranged a trial through the Dorset Orthopaedic’s Burton clinic but found it tricky to use. “It just wasn’t right for me, it was hard to put on and take off. But during my visit, Orthotist Nick Prince mentioned they offered a wireless FES option too.” Following a further trial at the Burton Clinic Suzanne instantly knew it was the right choice. “There were no wires. It was fast, easy and just worked.”

Her new system also came with foot switches that made the stimulation quicker and more responsive. “It made a huge difference straight away. After a week of trying it, Suzanne didn’t want to give it back.” Suzanne now wears two FES systems – one on each leg – and her levels of mobility and freedom of movement have increased drastically.

Suzanne’s experience at the clinic stood out just as much as the technology. “Everyone at Dorset Orthopaedic was so lovely. Nick, especially — he’s fantastic. Always at the end of the phone if I’ve got any questions. And I have to say, the coffee machine is great too!” she laughs.

The change in Suzanne’s day-to-day life has been remarkable. Earlier this year, Suzanne went on holiday and for the first time in years, wore a dress. “That might seem small, but for me, it was a really big deal,” said Suzanne.

Daily life, however, still presents an array of challenges. Suzanne can no longer drive. After an accident, she realised she couldn’t feel the pedals properly and decided it was safer to stop. But Suzanne has kept her independence in other ways. She helps her husband with his business, keeps the house running with support from her mother-in-law, and still finds time to read and relax. Her children, now 18 and 21, have been a steady source of strength and motivation.

Another major part of Suzanne’s journey is a clinical trial that changed the course of her condition. For eight years, she took part in a study for Siponimod, a drug now approved by NICE for people with Secondary Progressive MS, and she continues to take it today. “I’m convinced that if I hadn’t been part of that trial, I’d be in a wheelchair full-time by now. It’s really slowed the progression for me.” Looking back on her journey, Suzanne has clear advice for others navigating life with MS: “Accept all the help you’re offered. Don’t be afraid to ask and most importantly, be kind to yourself. I used to get so frustrated with my limitations — but now I’ve learned to give myself a break.”