Physical Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis [Infographic]
In the United States, nearly 1 million people live with multiple sclerosis according to a study funded by the National MS Society. According to the 2017 study, 74% of multiple sclerosis patients are female and 26% are male. Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system in which the immune system attacks and damages the myelin sheath that surrounds the nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord. This interferes with the transmission of nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body.
Symptoms of multiple sclerosis can vary from person to person in type, duration, and intensity depending on which part of the nervous system is affected. Multiple sclerosis is a progressive condition that can go into remission for a time or relapse with new symptoms. Common symptoms include fatigue, pain, memory issues, difficulty walking, balance and coordination problems, depression, dizziness, bladder or bowel problems, vision issues, speech and swallowing problems, and stiffness and spasms of heaviness in the legs or arms.
Physical therapy plays a critical role in rehabilitation and conserving functional abilities in those with multiple sclerosis. Studies have shown that rehabilitation for multiple sclerosis has positive results for the patient and that exercise physical therapy is a safe and effective rehabilitation option for patients with the condition. Physical therapy helps the patient improve balance, aerobic capacity, endurance, walking ability, and functional independence of the patient. During therapeutic exercise, the physical therapist carefully monitors the patient for heat tolerance and sensitivity so that the patient can exercise and improve functional capabilities without triggering the onset or exacerbation of symptoms.
Physical therapy interventions include:
Stretching exercises, which help manage spasticity and improve range of motion
Gait training utilizing weight-bearing and weight-shifting drills and body positioning
Balance and coordination training, using vestibular exercises and dual-task drills to decrease the risk of falling
Progressive resistance and strength training, focusing on specific muscle groups that are weak and contribute to limited function
Aerobic conditioning, using a stationary bike or elliptical at low-to-moderate intensity
Management of multiple sclerosis is a life-long process. At Mangiarelli Rehabilitation, our physical therapists are here to support you through each stage and symptom and help you achieve the best possible function, mobility, and independence.
