Benefits of Early Physical Therapy for People With MS

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Benefits of Early Physical Therapy for People With MS

Benefits-of-Early-Physical-Therapy-for-People-With-MS
Aug 10, 2023
MS

Are you looking for effective ways to help you or someone you love manage their MS (Multiple Sclerosis) symptoms and increase their activity levels? Our physical therapists at Dr. Physio Therapy & Wellness in Fort Lauderdale are highly trained and experienced in treating all neurological disorders, including MS.

We understand how important it is to use research-based solutions that effectively help improve your or someone you love’s limitations related to MS. The cost of MS on the individual and their family can be significant and, at times, overwhelming.

For some, the physical changes are slow to progress whereas others experience significant declines that make even the most basic daily tasks difficult, or impossible to complete. Fortunately, our team of physical therapists at Dr. Physio Therapy & Wellness in Fort Lauderdale is devoted to helping you address any limitation that is interfering with your everyday activities and making life way harder than it should be.

Call today to request an appointment and let us help you learn to manage your MS and function at your highest potential!

What is MS, and what causes it?

The growing body of research indicates that MS is likely an auto-immune-related process in which the body directs an abnormal response against the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves (i..e, the central nervous system).

This auto-immune response within the central nervous system (CNS) causes an inflammatory response that damages the fatty substance surrounding and insulates our nerves, known as myelin. This damage, known as demyelination, causes the impulses along the nerve to be slowed and fatigued earlier than usual.

As the condition progresses, the nerves become fibrotic and scarred, leading to more and more damage and dysfunction of the nerves. The impact of MS is different from one person to another, and it is also unpredictable for the individual.

MS is categorized into four clinical subtypes that describe the progression of the disease and the typical characteristics of each subtype. The categories are as follows:

  • Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS): This is the most common subtype and affects 85% of all people with MS. It is characterized by short attacks to the CNS that are followed by complete or partial returns of normal functioning.
  • Secondary-progressive MS (SPMS): This category starts as relapsing-remitting MS, but then there is a steady decline in function without the return of function.
  • Primary-Progressive MS (PPMS): This type of MS exhibits a steady decline in function from the onset of the disease.
  • Progressive-Relapsing MS (PRMS): This last subtype is similar to PPMS, in steady decline, but there are also acute attacks without a return of function.

Fortunately, there is evidence that early physical therapy intervention can make a significant difference in mobility and functioning to delay the physical impairments that limit functioning. The key is to be seen by a physical therapist familiar with the most effective treatments.

What to expect at your physical therapy sessions

Rehabilitation should start immediately following an MS diagnosis to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our physical therapists will begin with an evaluation and a movement assessment to identify all the factors contributing to any loss of function.

This will consist of a thorough history to understand the limitations and the individual’s overall health status. We will use this information to develop a comprehensive program that includes targeted manual techniques, mobility work, strengthening, and any appropriate pain relief technique that might be necessary.

Our physical therapists have extensive experience with neurological rehab. They will use the most up-to-date methods to determine the severity of the condition and identify any other weaknesses or limitations that may affect your recovery, stability, or overall function.

Next, your therapist at Dr. Physio Therapy & Wellness in Fort Lauderdale will create a targeted, individualized care plan and guide you through exercises designed to help you return to your highest functional abilities.

Our team will focus on progressing your strength, dynamic stability, balance, and coordination exercises to stimulate the nervous system and help ensure you can resume and maintain your physical functioning while avoiding any future injuries!

Request an appointment today!

For anyone dealing with or with a loved one with MS, we want to promote the outstanding and personalized care our team will provide your patients!

If you or someone your love is struggling with any physical limitations related to MS, call Dr. Physio Therapy & Wellness in Fort Lauderdale today to get started as soon as possible. Our therapists are here to help!

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MS