Guillain-Barré syndrome is a disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system (usually the arm and legs). Bilateral (both left and right) weakness or tingling sensations in the legs spreads to the arms, breathing muscles and face. The symptoms can increase in intensity until the muscles cannot be used at all and there is almost totally paralysis. In the acute phase, the condition requires hospitalization, including dependence upon a respirator to breathe.
The disorder can develop over the course of hours or days, or it may take up to 3 to 4 weeks. Commonly there is a recent respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection that clears just before the disorder begins developing. Occasionally, surgery or vaccinations will trigger the syndrome.
A recovery phase may last 4-6 months or longer. Weakness in the limbs, loss of full range of motion, joint contractures and gait disruption are some of the permanent residuals in those who do not recover completely, which is about 30% of those who contract the condition. About 3 percent of these may suffer a relapse of muscle weakness and tingling sensations many years after the initial attack.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- GBS
- Acute idiopathic polyneuropathy
- Landy-Guillain-Barre syndrome
Symptoms:
- Bilateral loss of reflexes
- Muscle pain and tenderness
- Numbness and decreased sensation in the feet
- Gait disruption
- Clumsy movements
Signs to look for:
- Diagnosis
- Gait disruption
- Bilateral foot drop
Possible Causes:
- Autoimmune disorder of unknown cause
- Typically occurs following a viral disorder, surgery or trauma
Goals:
- Restore balance
- Control motion of the feet
- Improve gait
- Footwear to make exercising more comfortable
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
- Where bracing is needed, insert one of the above supports in the braces
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- For Smart footwear, wear shoes with titanium springs or shoes with rocker soles
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Stop wearing wear pumps and high heels
- Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
Other:
Where the above shoes and arch supports do not provide enough stability, bracing, wedging or flares may be necessary
Activities:
- Medical treatment
- Regular exercise program that promotes increased strength and circulation in lower extremities
- Regular stretching program for entire body
- Rotation of weight bearing and non-weight bearing exercising, such as walking (weight bearing) with swimming and bicycling (non-weight bearing)
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Text: A. Decker, S. Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics, ninds.nih.gov