Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease that causes inflammation of the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. All nerves are covered with myelin which allows messages to travel along the nerves at great speed. When someone has MS it causes their immune system to break down or damage the myelin which disrupts the messages and impacts on how the body functions. There are 4 types of MS.

Relapsing Remitting

This is the most common type and affects about 85% of people who are diagnosed with MS. It usually presents with episodes of ‘flare up’ called relapses. During this time old ongoing or older symptoms can get worse or someone may develop new symptoms. Relapses can be different for everybody and can last varying amounts of time. However, the symptoms usually ease or fade away and these are periods called remitting periods. Rehabilitation can be helpful during and after a relapse.

Primary Progressive

About 15% of people with MS are diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS. This means that after the first symptoms appear there is a general progression of these and new symptoms. Again the time period for progression varies massively between individuals however the common feature is that there is no remitting period.

Secondary Progressive

Most people who have relapsing-remitting symptoms will go on to develop Secondary Progressive MS. With this type of MS your disability gets steadily worse. You’re no longer likely to have relapses, when your symptoms get worse but then get better.

Benign MS

This is when there is a small number of relapses or limited episodes of symptoms followed by complete recovery. However, symptoms can reoccur many years after a period of remission.

MS can cause disruption in any part of the central nervous system (brain or spinal cord), therefore an individual with MS can present with a wide range of symptoms and no two people are the same. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness or tingling, problems with coordination and balance, vision problems, and difficulties with memory, concentration and thinking skills (cognition).

Diagnosis often involves a combination of medical history, neurological exams, imaging tests (such as MRI), and other diagnostic procedures to rule out other conditions.

While there is a genetic component, MS is not directly inherited. Environmental factors are also thought to play a role in the development of the condition.

The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger an autoimmune response. This leads to the body ‘attacking’ itself causing inflammation and damage to myelin (the coating of the nerves) that helps the electrical messages travel along the nerves in the brain and the spine. When the messages slow down or are disrupted the body functions they control are effected.

There is currently no cure for MS, but various treatments aim to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life.

Treatments may include disease-modifying medications, symptom management, and rehabilitative therapies such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy like those offered by MOTIONrehab.

Yes, regular exercise can be beneficial for individuals with MS, helping to improve strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. However, exercise plans should be tailored to individual abilities and needs. At MOTIONrehab we have extensive experience at providing bespoke exercise plans for the home or gym to help maintain and maximise function.

The course of MS varies widely, and the prognosis is different for each person. Some individuals may have a relatively mild course, while others may experience more severe symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can positively impact outcomes.

Yes, there are many MS support groups where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and access valuable information and resources. MOTIONrehab would recommend liaising with the MS Society or the MS Trust as a starting point and they will direct you to a local resource.

On arrival you will be provided with our Terms and Conditions of Business and the relevant consent forms to agree to treatment. If you would like to receive these in advance of your appointment please contact our Client Services Team on 0800 8600 138. and they will assist you. If received in advance please bring the completed document with you to the first appointment.

As part of your initial assessment, your physiotherapist will need to take details of your medical history, present condition, allergies/sensitivities and current medications. Please come to the appointment in comfortable clothing, for example, shorts, t-shirt, and trainers.