Multiple Sclerosis
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis or MS is a progressive condition, where plaques develop in the brain and spinal cord. These interfere with the transmission of messages from the brain to the muscles, and from the skin to the brain. This means that movement may be affected and that sensation may be reduced in various areas. Other common problems include spasticity, eye problems, poor coordination and bladder and bowel problems. MS is a very individual condition, with no two people being the same. It is often characterised by periods of relapse, followed by recovery, although some people have more of a general decline, without the recovery phases.
How Can Physio-Neuro Help?
MS is a very individual condition and can cause problems in all aspects of movement and sensation. It is progressive and can be very debilitating. Physiotherapy will help with stretching out muscles and joints that are getting tight, strengthen as far as possible any muscles that are weak, improve posture, whether that is sitting or standing, help in management of spasticity and improve balance and walking as far as possible. Treatment may need to be more intensive during recovery from a relapse with a home based programme of stretches and exercises between these times, or it may be more on-going with regular stretches and exercises to reduce complications. The actual programme would be based on individual circumstances and may well change over time.
