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The symptoms associated with MS vary between one person and another,
both in the areas of the body affected and the degree of severity. The
aim of physiotherapy is to improve the individual’s functional
abilities in order to maximise their independence and to reduce disability.
How
can physiotherapy work?
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Physiotherapy can help in the following ways
General advice on a variety of subjects such as posture,
how to avoid back problems, transfers e.g. how best to transfer in and
out of a car.
Specific exercises. These are exercises that are designed
to help a particular problem. Some examples are:-
Hydrotherapy- exercise in water. Water is an excellent
medium in which to exercise as the water helps to counter the weight
of the body making movement and exercise easier.
Prevention. Physiotherapy may be useful in preventing
problems occurring. For example where there is muscle weakness and reduced
movement it is important to stretch the relevant muscles to prevent
them from shortening as this would gradually result in joint stiffness
leading to pain and immobility. There are exercises that a person can
do for themselves or someone can do for them to stretch the affected
muscles. Another example of prevention is improving posture to help
reduce the occurrence of back problems and stiffness.
Walking aids. The provision of walking aids e.g. walking stick, is an
important area and there are various considerations such as which aid
is most appropriate and is the aid the correct height for the individual.
The physiotherapist would demonstrate how the aid should be used correctly
and safely.
Advice to family and carers. The sort of advice that
may be helpful is how best to help people move/ transfer (e.g. around
the house, in and out of the car), how to look after their own back
to avoid injury, demonstration of the exercises and explanation of how
they are helpful.
What
does the physiotherapist do?
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Assessment
The first step in any physiotherapy treatment is assessment. The physiotherapist
would be looking at such symptoms as muscle weakness, changes in sensation,
balance problems etc. and would then take into consideration other factors
such as lifestyle, fatigue, and personal needs in order to decide what
physiotherapy treatment might be most appropriate and helpful.
Advice and Exercise
The physiotherapist would then give advice and suggest appropriate
exercise for the individual. The exercises would be practised during
the physiotherapy session and usually accompanied by suitable exercises
that may be practised at home.
Follow-up
The physiotherapist would continue to see the person over a period
of time to assess progress and alter treatment as required. They would
also be able to refer the person to other departments as necessary.
e.g. Occupational Therapy, Specialist Nurse, Orthotic Department.
How do you arrange physiotherapy?
Where can you receive physiotherapy?
Nos 1-3, Via GP for the hospital and community services
Nos 4-5, By self-referral for MS Therapy centres and private practices.
The physiotherapy services provided by the NHS vary from area to area
as do the other services. The therapy centres are at various sites around
the country. Further information about the centres may be obtained from
the Who Can Help’ leaflet available from this unit. Some hospitals
also have rehabilitation centres. The physiotherapy department at your
local hospital would be able to advise you of facilities in your area.
If you seek therapy from a private practitioner ensure that they are
a Chartered Physiotherapist as are all NHS physiotherapists and that
they are experienced in the treatment of neurological conditions.
This is an outline of physiotherapy and how it can help people with
MS. The information and examples given may not be suitable for everyone
and you should consult a physiotherapist for specific advice and treatment.