Multiple sclerosis is a chronic often relapsing demyelinating disease. It is mostly known as MS, and it affects the brain, spinal cord and the nervous system in general. Patients may come with vague symptoms of visual disturbances, depression, impaired speech, changes in sensation, or difficulty in coordinating movement. The pathology is in the myelin sheath which gets damaged leading to neurological injury.
Effective treatment of MS aims at restoring body functions through exercise induction and relief of symptoms. The physical therapists in Palm Desert, CA are trained to deal with MS using different approaches. Once the diagnosis has been made, early treatment has been shown to be effective in preventing disease progression and hence better prognosis.
Successful treatment focuses on the four types of MS- primary progressive; progressive relapsing; secondary progressive; and relapsing-remitting. Regardless of the type of MS, much damage on the body occurs during the first year. The pharmacologic therapies that have been shown to decrease the frequency of flare-ups in MS are beta interferons, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab, mitoxantrone, fingolimod, and teriflunomide. These disease-modifying therapies are useful in an individual whose MS has periods of relapses.
Symptomatic management is employed in the treatment MS. Pain is treated with high potency analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Steroids are used in the condition because of their ability to reduce inflammation. However, care must be exercised to avoid adverse steroid effects such as osteoporosis and diabetes which will worsen the disease.
For high quality and comprehensive MS care, physical therapists at New Beginning Physical Therapy include dietary advice, lifestyle modification, and exercises as part of the treatment. Physical therapy is essential in delaying morbidity and even mortality. The patient is assisted in exercising their muscles and joints. Exercises are tailored to fit the patient’s needs including those who are in wheelchairs or are bedridden. Through the exercises, a high-quality life can be maintained.