Secondary Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis and How Physical Therapy Can Help

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affects nearly 1 million people in the United States alone. MS is an immune-mediated disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the insulation, called myelin, that surrounds the nerves in the central nervous system. This damage causes widespread symptoms that vary depending upon the type and severity of MS, including:

• Weakness
• Sensation loss
• Visual impairments
• Bowel and bladder dysfunction
• Walking and balance impairments
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Pain

These are primary symptoms of MS that are directly related to the disease process. These symptoms can impact someone’s mobility, quality of life, ability to work and provide for their family, relationships, and community participation.

When primary symptoms are not well managed, they can lead to secondary symptoms, which are complications related to the effects of primary symptoms. A notable list of secondary symptoms can be related to inactivity and may include:

• Loss of muscle tone/atrophy
• Weakness (not related to demyelination)
• Poor posture
• Decreased flexibility
• Decreased bone density (increased risk of fracture)
• Weight gain
• Decreased endurance and fatigue
• Shallow, inefficient breathing
• Pressure sores
• Anxiety/stress
• Pain

These secondary symptoms can lead to even further loss of function and a decline in health status. The primary goal of a healthcare team is to directly address the primary symptoms and prevent the onset of secondary complications. At any physical level, a long-term exercise program can improve primary and secondary symptoms and decrease long-term complications.

Although MS can be debilitating both mentally and physically, working with an experienced rehabilitation team, including physical, occupational, and speech-language therapists, can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life at any physical level. Physical therapy works toward restoring, maintaining, or improving physical function by utilizing exercise prescription, hands-on care, technology, and education to optimize patient movement.

A physical therapist who specializes in neurologic care can also help make appropriate referrals to other members of the healthcare team, facilitating all-encompassing care. Sheltering Arms Institute has both neurological certified and Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialists who can facilitate an all-encompassing care plan to meet the needs of those living with MS. To learn more about our program for individuals with MS, visit https://shelteringarmsinstitute.com/conditions-and-services/multiple-sclerosis-rehabilitation/.