What is MS?

MS is a condition affecting the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the coating around the nerve fibres (called myelin) is damaged, this disrupts messages travelling along nerve fibres – they can slow down, become distorted, or not get through at all. This damage causes a range of symptoms.

There are different types of MS-for some people the condition is slowly progressive whilst others will experience sudden attacks followed by periods of remission.

Once diagnosed, MS cannot be cured, but treatments and specialists can help you to manage the condition and its symptoms.

Symptoms of MS

The central nervous system links everything your body does; therefore many different types of symptoms can appear in MS.

The specific symptoms that appear depend upon which part of your brain and spinal cord is affected and the job of the damaged nerve.

Therefore, everyone will experience different symptoms, however, some of the symptoms which you may experience are: balance problems, dizziness, walking difficulties, fatigue, muscle weakness, muscle stiffness and/or spasms, visual difficulties and bladder problems.

Treatment of MS

There are various medications available to help to manage the symptoms of MS; you will need to discuss these with your consultant.

Physiotherapy is useful to help with many of the symptoms of MS, particularly when there is a specific problem or ongoing symptoms that affect day-to-day activities, mobility and independence. It can help whatever your level of disability, but can be particularly valuable when physical symptoms progress or you are recovering from a relapse.

Following a detailed assessment, your physiotherapist will set specific goals with you and plan a programme of treatment which may involve: hands on treatment and stretches, specific exercises, suggestions of equipment or aids, practical problem solving and advice to improve day-to-day situations.

How can Neurocare Physiotherapy help me?

At Neurocare, we are all highly specialised in treating neurological conditions, so you can be confident that your physiotherapist will have the necessary experience to provide you with the specialist level of treatment which you deserve.