What is episodic mobility?

In May 2022, the term ‘episodic mobility’ was used to describe Queen Elizabeth the Second’s declining health.

Buckingham Palace released a statement, reporting the late monarch was experiencing ‘episodic mobility problems’, forcing her to pull out from public engagements.

Photographers had captured her using a walking stick since 2021, and throughout 2022, she could not attend royal events like Remembrance Day, the opening of Parliament and several events celebrating her 70th diamond Jubilee.

But many were confused by the term ‘episodic mobility’: what does it refer to, and what causes it? Still, there is some mystery surrounding the description and whether it refers to a specific diagnosis or a broad range of medical conditions.

What does episodic mobility mean?

Episodic mobility does not refer to one specific condition. Rather, it refers to individuals who experience a temporary reduction in mobility and agility: it’s not a consistent problem but something occasional.

Sufferers may experience unsteadiness as they walk, be more vulnerable to falls and could require help getting in and out of a chair. But what causes episodic mobility?

What causes episodic mobility issues?

Episodic and general mobility issues can be caused by several factors, including:

1. Old age

As we age, the body naturally loses muscle mass and becomes frailer. With this loss of strength and weakening of the joints comes difficulty completing simple tasks, like moving, rising from chairs and balancing.

Queen Elizabeth II was 96 when she was reportedly experiencing these issues, so she began using mobility aids, like walking sticks and a wheelchair-friendly lift.

2. Obesity

According to this 2018 study, having excess body weight could directly impact the joints and increase the risk of osteoarthritis. It can also change your postural control, pain and muscle weakness, leading to functional limitations.

While you may still be able to get around, you may experience periods of episodic mobility that lead to a reliance on walking aids or a mobility scooter.

3. Chronic diseases

Some chronic diseases are manageable with the right medication and physical rehabilitation. However, this doesn’t mean patients will always experience full mobility.

Common chronic conditions and diseases that may cause episodic mobility include:

Arthritis: This inflammatory condition affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The symptoms can vary from day to day, leading to episodic mobility issues.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS is a neurological condition where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres. It can lead to muscle weakness, balance issues, and spasms, causing intermittent mobility challenges.
Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. A person with osteoporosis might experience episodic mobility issues, especially after a fracture or because of pain.
Diabetes: Neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet and legs, affecting mobility. Additionally, poor blood circulation due to diabetes can cause muscle cramps and weakness.
Stroke: A stroke can result in partial paralysis or weakness on one side of the body. While rehabilitation can help regain some mobility, there might be days when movement is more challenging than others.

4. Low physical activity

Many health experts believe the key to avoiding episodic mobility in old age is to be physically active while we can. It can be a form of intervention (as shown in this National Institute on Ageing study).

On the other hand, low physical activity (or sedentary behaviour) can directly affect our body long-term and perhaps increase the risk of episodic mobility.

Physical activities, like walking or running, are essential for maintaining muscle strength and mass. When we lead a sedentary lifestyle, our muscles can weaken and atrophy, which means they decrease in size.

Not getting enough exercise can also impact our joints: they need movement to stay flexible and can become stiff and painful without it. Over time, this may make conditions like arthritis more likely.

chairs and balancing.

Queen Elizabeth II was 96 when she was reportedly experiencing these issues, so she began using mobility aids, like walking sticks and a wheelchair-friendly lift.

2. Obesity

While you may still be able to get around, you may experience periods of episodic mobility that lead to a reliance on walking aids or a mobility scooter.

3. Chronic diseases

Some chronic diseases are manageable with the right medication and physical rehabilitation. However, this doesn’t mean patients will always experience full mobility.

Common chronic conditions and diseases that may cause episodic mobility include:

Arthritis: This inflammatory condition affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The symptoms can vary from day to day, leading to episodic mobility issues.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS is a neurological condition where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres. It can lead to muscle weakness, balance issues, and spasms, causing intermittent mobility challenges.
Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. A person with osteoporosis might experience episodic mobility issues, especially after a fracture or because of pain.
Diabetes: Neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet and legs, affecting mobility. Additionally, poor blood circulation due to diabetes can cause muscle cramps and weakness.
Stroke: A stroke can result in partial paralysis or weakness on one side of the body. While rehabilitation can help regain some mobility, there might be days when movement is more challenging than others.

4. Low physical activity

On the other hand, low physical activity (or sedentary behaviour) can directly affect our body long-term and perhaps increase the risk of episodic mobility.

How can you minimise the effect of mobility issues?

How a person manages their episodic mobility can vary. Everyone is capable of different levels of physical activity, and some may not be able to use certain mobility aids due to their conditions.

However, to minimise the effects of your episodic mobility and keep your body in optimal condition, we encourage the following methods.

(Please note our tips are based on general advice and should not be taken as medical guidance. For instructions tailored to your condition, please visit a healthcare professional, GP or physical therapist).

Engage in regular physical activity: The definition of physical activity will be personal to you. Whether it means a 15-minute walk or a 30-minute jog, engaging in structured, moderate-intensity physical activity may improve episodic mobility issues.
Stay connected: Remember, you’re not alone! According to government statistics, over 16 million people in the UK have a mobility-limiting disability. Find and join support groups, communities, or organisations in your area that focus on mobility issues. Together, you can trade tips, resources, and emotional support.
Prioritise safety: Make your home safer by investing in grab rails, dressing aids and other devices that encourage stability.
Use mobility aids: Don’t be afraid to use mobility aids. They can enhance your daily life, making simple tasks like shopping, getting around your house or visiting family and friends easier. We offer Zimmer frames, rollators, walking frames, mobility trolleys, and elbow crutches to ease the struggles of episodic mobility.