Do you need a physiotherapist to treat MS? In this blog, we explain the importance of professional assistance and offer tips to improve your quality of life.
Don’t miss them!
Enhance your quality of life with physical therapy in Brooklyn NY
How Can a Physiotherapist Assist Those with MS?
Physiotherapists help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) by improving mobility, balance, and strength, and offering techniques for managing pain and fatigue. They also develop personalized treatment plans, provide education on exercises and daily activities, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals for an integrated approach to treatment.
Individualized Assessment and Care Plans
One of the first steps a physiotherapist takes is an individualized assessment to identify the patient’s specific needs and limitations. Based on this evaluation, they develop a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s symptoms, mobility levels, and personal goals.
Benefits of receiving a personalized assessment:
- Identifies specific areas of weakness or imbalance
- Allows for a focused approach to the patient’s unique needs
- Improves the efficiency and effectiveness of treatment
Improved Mobility and Balance
Reduced mobility and balance problems are common symptoms in people with MS. Physiotherapists work to improve these through specific exercises that strengthen muscles, enhance coordination, and reduce the risk of falls.
Some commonly used techniques include:
- Muscle-strengthening exercises
- Balance and stability exercises
- Assisted mobility techniques
Fatigue Management
Fatigue is one of the most debilitating symptoms in people with MS. Physiotherapists teach strategies to manage energy better throughout the day, including activity planning, energy conservation, and rest techniques.
Strategies to help manage fatigue include establishing moderate exercise routines and practicing breathing and relaxation exercises. Physiotherapists also advise on using assistive devices to reduce physical effort, leading to an improved quality of life.
Pain Management Techniques
Pain, whether muscular or neuropathic, is another common symptom in MS. Physiotherapists use a variety of techniques to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.
These techniques include:
- Manual therapy (massage, joint mobilization)
- Stretching exercises
- Use of heat or cold to relieve muscle tension
Education and Training
A physiotherapist provides both physical treatment and educational support.
This includes guidance on managing the condition, moving safely, and maintaining an exercise routine at home.
Support for activities of daily living
For many people with MS, daily tasks like dressing, walking, or cooking can become challenging. A physiotherapist helps find safer and more effective ways to perform these activities, often suggesting modifications or assistive tools.
Examples of daily support:
- Home modifications to improve mobility
- Training in the use of assistive devices (like canes or walkers)
- Exercises to improve strength and dexterity in the limbs
Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals
Teamwork is essential in MS treatment. Physiotherapists work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as neurologists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists, to ensure that the patient receives comprehensive care.
This collaboration improves treatment coordination and outcomes, resulting in more effective care. It also allows for even more precise customization of care plans, adapting them to the patient’s specific needs.
Importance of a Personalized Approach
Each person with MS is unique, and their needs vary. Physiotherapists understand the importance of adapting treatment strategies to each individual to ensure the most effective approach for improving quality of life.
Sources:
- Rasova, K., Freeman, J., Martinkova, P., Pavlikova, M., Cattaneo, D., Jonsdottir, J., Henze, T., Baert, I., Van Asch, P., Santoyo, C., Smedal, T., Beiske, A. G., Stachowiak, M., Kovalewski, M., Nedeljkovic, U., Bakalidou, D., Guerreiro, J. M. A., Nilsagård, Y., Nikolikj Dimitrova, E., Habek, M., Armutlu, K., Donzé, C., Ross, E., Ilie, A. M., Martić, A., Romberg, A., & Feys, P. (2016). The organisation of physiotherapy for people with multiple sclerosis across Europe: A multicentre questionnaire survey. BMC Health Services Research, 16(1). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-016-1750-6