Physical Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Overview

Physical therapy is a type of rehabilitative care that focuses on diagnosing and treating injuries, chronic and acute conditions, and movement dysfunction. It is considered a conservative approach to dealing with various musculoskeletal problems. Physical therapists are health professionals who use targeted techniques and treatments to restore mobility, improve range of motion, decrease pain, and improve physical function. They are trained to work with people of all ages through prescribed exercise, manual therapy, and patient education.

Physical therapy can play an important role in helping people with multiple sclerosis (MS) manage the condition. MS is a progressive disease of the central nervous system that causes the immune system to attack the protective covering of the nerves, called myelin. This disruption can lead to various symptoms, including pain, impaired coordination, and fatigue.

Here's what you need to know about physical therapy for multiple sclerosis:

• Benefits of Physical Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis:
  • Strengthens the body
  • Prevents symptoms from getting worse
  • Helps regain lost function
  • Encourages learning about the body and handling bodily changes
  • Promotes independence
• Preoperative Physical Therapy Intervention:
  • Explain the details of the procedure to the patient
  • Encourage walking and eating as soon as possible
  • Perform a functional assessment to evaluate daily living activities
  • Instruct the patient on physical therapy procedures to be performed during the immediate postoperative period
  • Investigate possible risks of postoperative respiratory and vascular complications
  • Instruct the patient to move their feet as soon as possible, even when still on the gurney
• Physical Therapy Procedure:
• A physical therapist will guide the exercises a person should do while recovering from surgery.
• Examples of activities they may suggest include:
  • Range of motion exercises
  • Strengthening exercises
  • Balance exercises
  • Cardiovascular exercises
• Postoperative Physical Therapy Intervention:
  • Check routine laboratory tests
  • Follow your physical therapist's instructions for recovery and follow-up care
• Potential Complications from Physical Therapy:
  • When working with a qualified and licensed physical therapist, potential risks are minimized.
  • However, possible risks may include:
    • Increased muscle soreness from exercises
    • No improvement in functioning
    • Worsening joint pain

It's important to follow your physical therapist's instructions and communicate any concerns or complications you may experience during or after physical therapy. If you have any questions or need further guidance, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider.