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Multiple Sclerosis: Understanding the Burden and Path to Better Living
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a clinical condition characterized by a loss of the myelin tissue that surrounds the nerves and aids in normal conduction of electrical impulses. Common symptoms of MS include muscle weakness, impaired coordination and balance, mobility difficulties, and bladder control problems. While there is currently no cure for MS, treatments focus on slowing disease progression, managing symptoms, and improving quality of life. Physical and occupational therapy play a crucial role in promoting independence and maintaining daily function.
The primary goal of physical and occupational therapy for MS patients is to preserve functionality and help individuals perform daily activities without too much difficulty. Customized therapy programs are designed to meet each patient’s unique needs and are adjusted as the disease progresses.
Stages of Multiple Sclerosis
MS presents in different forms. It may begin with mild symptoms or gradually worsen over time. Physical and occupational therapy are an important part of the treatment process during the different stages of MS. During the early stages, physical and occupational therapist evaluate key areas such as sensation, muscle strength, balance, and mobility to identify any impairments. Early intervention is critical in slowing functional decline.
During acute flare-ups, which may require hospitalization, physical and occupational therapist will work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to support the recovery process and restore mobility as quickly as possible.
MS can also present as a slow, progressive condition that relapses a number of times and seems to ‘go away’. Don’t be fooled, because it can cause severe limitations over time.
In some situations, the side-effects are minimal and daily life is not impaired. Each person’s progression is different. Your physical and occupational therapist will always assess the most important functional problems affecting you and will address those needs in a comprehensive, customized treatment program.
How Physical and Occupational Therapy Help
A well-structured, supervised exercise program is essential for MS management. As patients tend to fatigue quickly, exercise plans are designed to be simple and gradual. Exercise programs are also designed to be intermittent to prevent sudden ‘attacks’ of pain and discomfort. Here are some benefits physical and occupational therapy offer:
- Improved Posture and Trunk Control: Patients with MS are at risk of falling. Physical and occupational therapy focus on strengthening core muscles and enhancing trunk control.
- Enhanced Independence with Assistive Devices: Walking aids such as canes, walkers, and customized foot orthoses may be introduced to improve mobility and reduce strain. Conditions such as foot drop and loss of sensation in the lower extremities may warrant the use of additional orthoses.
- Increased Mobility: Mobility is an important prerequisite to patient independence. Joint and muscle stiffness (especially in the legs) can be corrected with stretching exercises. Stiffness in the neck muscles can affect neck and head posture and control, which can also be corrected with supports and exercise.
- Restoration of muscle tone: Increased tone (hypertonia) or decreased muscle tone (hypotonia) is a result of the impact of MS on the nerves. Physical and occupational therapist may use manual techniques to improve joint sensation and restore normal muscle tone.
Physical and occupational therapists play an important role in the management of patients with MS and several other conditions affecting the nerves, muscles, bones, and joints. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of MS, don’t wait to take the first step toward better living. With the right support, it is possible to maintain independence, reduce discomfort, and enhance quality of life.