How Physical and Occupational Therapy Can Help Manage Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to various symptoms.

Why Physical Therapy is Essential for MS

Physical therapy focuses on improving movement, strength, and flexibility. Here’s how it can benefit individuals with MS:

• Enhances Mobility – Exercises and stretching routines help maintain muscle function and prevent stiffness, making walking and movement easier.
• Reduces Fatigue – PT can help manage energy levels through targeted strength training and cardiovascular exercises.
• Improves Balance & Coordination – Many MS patients experience dizziness or unsteady movement. PT includes balance training to reduce falls and enhance stability.
• Manages Pain & Spasticity – Regular movement and stretching help reduce muscle stiffness and discomfort associated with MS.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in MS Management

Occupational therapy helps individuals with MS adapt to daily activities, ensuring they maintain independence. Some benefits include:

• Enhancing Daily Function – OT provides strategies to make everyday tasks like dressing, cooking, and writing more manageable.
• Adaptive Equipment & Assistive Devices – Therapists recommend tools like braces, walkers, or ergonomic modifications to ease mobility challenges.
• Cognitive Support – MS can affect memory and focus. OT includes exercises to improve cognitive function and manage brain fog.
• Energy Conservation Techniques – Learning how to pace activities and use energy efficiently prevents excessive fatigue.

Why You Should Consider Therapy for MS

Both PT and OT offer personalized approaches to managing MS symptoms. They help individuals maintain independence, reduce discomfort, and improve overall well-being. Seeking therapy early can lead to long-term benefits and better disease management.

Call to schedule your initial evaluation today! Our expert team of therapists at Reddy Care Physical, Occupational & Aquatic therapy, located throughout Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan can help . 

Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste.11, Great Neck, NY 11021  Tel. (516) 829.0030

Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735   Tel. (516) 420.2900

Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury, NY 11797   Tel. (516) 367.1111

Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729   Tel. (631) 243.0247

North Shore Towers: 272-78 Grand Central Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11005  Tel. (516) 344.0030

Bayside - Aquatic Therapy: 208-32 Cross Island Pkwy., Bayside, NY11360  Tel. (718) 224.8480

Oceanside: 2421 S Long Beach Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572  Tel. (516) 992.2282

New York City: 250 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025 Tel. (212) 580.0125

Bay Shore: 1470 Sunrise Highway Bay Shore NY, 11706 Tel:(631)-446.1480

Amityville: 565 Albany Ave Amityville NY, 11701 Tel:(631)-532.0906

 In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): Tel: (516) 829.0030 

*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, the Bronx & Manhattan*

Sources: Resource 1 Resource 2 

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy 

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.