Multiple sclerosis (M.S) and Physical Therapy

Multiple sclerosis (M.S) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves.  The resulting pain, and loss of function can make life considerably difficult.

M.S. comes about when the body’s immune system starts mistakenly attacking the protective covering on your nerve’s cells known as the myelin sheath. This causes scarring which results in a decrease of the nerves ability to transmit signals properly. This affects nerve function around the body. 

Symptoms of M.S can vary a lot depending on the nerves affected. No two cases are alike, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Fatigue 
• Weakness 
• Numbness or tingling of the hands, feet, or face.
• Dizziness 
• Vertigo 
• Pain 
• Walking difficulties 
• Loss of balance 
• Bladder and bowel problems 
• And emotional and cognitive changes 

Multiple sclerosis isn’t curable, but with the right treatment you can manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Physical therapy is often an important part of treatment, helping patients with M.S improve their function and independence. 

Treatment with a therapist will begin with a one-on-one assessment where they will determine the best course of treatment for your specific symptoms. Your therapists will work with you on a program of exercises and stretches to increase range-of-motion and strength, as well as any gait and balance issues. They may also recommend other modalities such as massage and ultrasound technology to help with pain management.

A course of occupational therapy may also prove useful for patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. Occupational therapists can work with patients to adjust to living with their symptoms and help them relearn and find new ways of accomplishing daily tasks. They may also recommend and help them with any assistive devices they may need as symptoms progress. 

Reddy Care Physical and Occupational therapy has a team of both physical and occupational therapists ready to help you get relief from your symptoms. To find out if physical or occupational therapy is right for you, give us a call today and schedule a consultation! 

Reddy Care Great Neck (Great Neck Physical Therapy): 516-829-0030
Reddy Care Farmingdale (Farmingdale Physical Therapy): 516-420-2900
North Shore Towers: 718-224-8480
Woodbury Physical Therapy: 516-367-1111
In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): 516-829-0030
*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, the Bronx & Manhattan

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.