Enhance Your Strengths with Physical Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment
Did you know that multiple sclerosis can range from mild to severe and also vary in progression? Or, did you know that MS does not usually shorten one’s life expectancy for people who live an active and healthy lifestyle? In fact, research shows that those who begin disease-modifying therapies early on in the disease experience a longer, more active lifespan than those who wait to start treatment.
Physical therapy can help people diagnosed with MS enhance their mobility and regain independence with personalized exercises and techniques. At Unified Rehabilitation, we specialize in tailoring our therapy programs to help you optimize your abilities and daily activities for more freedom of movement.
Keep reading to discover how we can help you maximize your abilities.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disorder of the central nervous system that causes inflammation of myelin – the protective covering that insulates the nerves – leading to damage in the covering and/or the nerve itself.
The exact causes of MS remain unclear, but it is most often first diagnosed in young adults. Symptoms can vary widely in duration and intensity and can flare up or subside over time.
- Cognitive changes
- Difficulty with balance, walking, and mobility
- Bowel problems
- Dizziness/vertigo
- Speech difficulties
- Spasticity
Relapses in MS are characterized by temporary worsening or new symptoms of nerve and myelin inflammation or by infections or environmental factors. Episodes can last days or months, leading to full or partial recovery.
The medical community has made amazing discoveries to help treat multiple sclerosis, and research isn’t stopping anytime soon. Studies show that including physical therapy in a program to manage MS symptoms can enhance the effectiveness of long-term medicines.
Incorporating Physical Therapy Into Treatment for MS
Physical therapy is about more than training; it’s about empowerment. Our team understands the ins and outs of MS and is dedicated to helping you move better, reduce pain, and regain a sense of independence.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to restore motion and alleviate muscle and soft tissue tension or restrictions.
- Aerobic Exercise: Utilize a variety of methods, like walking, to improve your overall cardiovascular fitness.
- Targeted Therapies: Prescribed movements designed to enhance your ability to perform everyday tasks.
- Balance training
- Stretching activities
- Strengthening exercises
- Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness activities to reduce stress and anxiety.
Our physical therapists also specialize in introducing assistive devices that can complement and enhance physical therapy sessions, such as:
- Motorized mobility devices: Battery or electric-powered mobility aids like motorized wheelchairs or scooters.
- Ankle-Foot Orthosis: Braces that aid in walking by providing stability to the foot and ankle.
- Walkers, Canes, and Crutches: Help provide stability and reduce the risk of falls when walking.
- Hip Flexion Devices: Provides stability and aids in lifting the left while walking.
- Mounted holding devices: Attachments or supports designed to hold objects securely in place so they are accessible to individuals with limited mobility and strength. They can be mounted to wheelchairs, tables, beds, or other surfaces commonly used to hold or place items like phones, books, or eating utensils.
Assistive devices may also include the latest in wearable technology, applications for cognitive support, or other innovations designed to further enhance the quality of life for individuals with MS.
For those in the later stages of the disease, we can also provide recommendations for specialized chairs designed to support individuals with posture needs so they can sit comfortably and safely without assistance. These devices often feature adjustable seat heights, depth, and angles to help prevent pressure sores and promote proper posture.
Support From The Team at Unified Rehabilitation
If you or a loved one has limited mobility due to multiple sclerosis or other conditions, give us a call today. We’ll work with you one-on-one to understand your condition, answer your questions, and define your goals for success. We’ll help you improve your outlook, enhance your mobility, and increase your independence so you can start feeling like yourself again call us today.