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/.

 

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Connected Pain: How Your Neck May Be Causing Your Headaches

If you have ever dealt with nagging neck pain, you are far from alone. In fact, research shows that roughly half of us will experience a significant episode of neck pain at some point in our lives. Whether it stems from a sudden whiplash injury, age-related changes like arthritis, a pinched nerve, or simply the daily muscle strain of looking down at our phones or computer screens, neck pain is incredibly disruptive. It can present as a dull ache or a sharp, catching pain, and it often robs you of your ability to turn your head comfortably. But there is another common symptom of neck stiffness that surprises many people: headaches.

Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy: What’s the Difference?

Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT) are distinct, separate professions, each requiring its own specialized education, licensing, and expertise. Because both fields share the ultimate goal of improving a patient’s independence and quality of life, their roles can sometimes seem to overlap.

Aphasia

Aphasia and the Role of the Speech-Language Pathologist

Aphasia (pronounced uh-FEY-zhuh) is the medical term used to describe difficulty with the production and comprehension of language. This can occur after a stroke or other injury to the brain. In addition to speaking, aphasia can also affect listening, reading, and writing. Individuals with aphasia may experience trouble finding the right words and producing intact sentences, which can impact their ability to express themselves as well as having trouble understanding what others are saying to them. In the most severe cases, a person with aphasia may be non-verbal, meaning they are not able to speak at all.

Reframing Your Outlook on Aging

May is Older Americans Month—a time dedicated to encouraging older adults to take an active role in their well-being through prevention, wellness, and self-management. Yet despite these empowering goals, aging is still often framed negatively in our society. By shifting how we think about getting older, and about ability more broadly, we can create a more positive, inclusive experience for everyone.

Simple Tips to Stay Active

Staying active doesn’t have to mean long workouts or a packed gym schedule. For most people, it’s really about finding simple ways to move more throughout the day. Those small choices—done consistently—can add up to real benefits for your energy, mood, and overall health.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.