Multiple sclerosis, also known as MS, is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects and attacks the Central Nervous System (CNS). This disease attacks the brain, the spinal cord and the optic nerves. It develops when the immune system targets the protective covering of nerve fibers, causing inflammation and damage. This damage can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness and/or tingling, and problems with coordination and balance.  

MS can affect people in different ways, and the symptoms can vary widely. Some people may experience only mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms that significantly impact their daily lives and activities. MS is typically diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, and affects women more often than men. The cause of MS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While there is no cure for MS, there are many treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

The specific treatment plan that is recommended will depend on the individual’s symptoms and the severity of the disease. Pilates and myotherapy can be helpful in managing symptoms and improving mobility and can include exercises to improve strength and balance. Lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough rest, can also be important in managing MS symptoms. 

There are four main types of MS, each with its own pattern of disease progression. These types are:

1. Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS): This is the most common type of MS, affecting about 85% of people with the disease. RRMS is characterised by periods of relapse, during which symptoms flare up, followed by periods of remission, during which symptoms improve or disappear. 

2. Primary progressive MS (PPMS): This type of MS affects about 10-15% of people with the disease. PPMS is characterized by a gradual worsening of symptoms over time, without distinct periods of relapse and remission.
   3. Secondary progressive MS (SPMS): This type of MS typically develops in people who initially had RRMS. SPMS is characterised by a gradual worsening of symptoms over time, with or without periods of relapse and remission.
3. Progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS): This is the rarest type of MS, affecting only about 5% of people with the disease. PRMS is characterised by a steady worsening of symptoms over time, with occasional relapses that may or may not result in some recovery of function.

How can myotherapy help?

Myotherapy is a form of physical therapy that focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. While it may not directly treat MS itself, it can provide several benefits for individuals living with MS by addressing the musculoskeletal symptoms and associated discomfort.  

It can help with: 

• Pain management: Many people with MS experience muscle pain, joint stiffness, and spasms. Myotherapy techniques such as soft tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and stretching exercises can help alleviate these symptoms and reduce pain levels. 
• Increased flexibility and range of motion: MS can cause muscle tightness and reduced flexibility, leading to difficulty with movement. Myotherapy can help improve joint mobility, increase flexibility, and enhance range of motion through specific exercises and stretching techniques. 

• Muscle relaxation: Muscle spasms and stiffness are common symptoms of MS. Myotherapy techniques like gentle massage, heat therapy, and relaxation exercises can help relax the muscles, reduce spasticity, and improve overall muscle function. 
• Postural correction and balance improvement: MS can affect posture and balance, leading to instability and an increased risk of falls. Myotherapy can focus on correcting postural imbalances, strengthening core muscles, and improving balance through targeted exercises and postural awareness. 
• Rehabilitation and functional training: MS may result in decreased strength, coordination, and functional abilities. Myotherapy can provide targeted rehabilitation exercises and functional training to help individuals with MS regain or improve their physical capabilities and perform daily activities more easily. A pilates program can also be included in this.  
• Symptom management: Myotherapy can assist in managing other symptoms commonly associated with MS, such as fatigue, numbness, and tingling sensations. By addressing musculoskeletal issues, myotherapy can indirectly contribute to an overall sense of well-being and quality of life. 

There is no cure for MS, but there are treatments available to help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. It’s important for people with MS to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs. Talk to one of our myotherapists to start managing symptoms with a treatment plan.
 

About the author

Adele Agius analyses the main components of people’s everyday lifestyles and interests to identify and provide specialised ways for a specific individual to help aid in strengthening, rehabilitating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Adele enjoys working with people to help get them back to the activities they love. 

Adele is a firm believer in educating her clients about their condition and what their recovery process will entail to improve their ability to manage, maintain and overcome their injuries.  

She has worked with NICA (National Institute of Circus Australia) and amateur basketball, netball and football leagues across Melbourne. 

References

Multiple sclerosis (MS). (n.d.). Retrieved May 5, 2023, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/multiple-sclerosis-ms#:~:text=Multiple%20sclerosis%20(MS)%20is%20a%20chronic%20disease%20of%20the%20central,trouble%20walking%2C%20and%20tingling%20feelings. 

Support. (2023, March 28). What is multiple sclerosis (MS). Retrieved May 5, 2023, from https://www.msaustralia.org.au/what-is-multiple-sclerosis-ms/ 

Author links open overlay panelPhu D. Hoang a b c d, A, B, C, D, (MS), A., . . . Feinstein, A. (2021, August 24). Exercise and sports science australia (ESSA) position statement on exercise for people with mild to moderate multiple sclerosis. Retrieved May 5, 2023, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1440244021002140