<< previous page

"A lot of people think they have to
just live with the symptoms they
have. But [PTs] can help a lot."
 - Dr. Cecilia Graham, UAB

    To find a physical therapist, ask your doctor about outpatient PT services. (Your insurance company might require a referral for PT treatments.) Duration and frequency of treatments will vary by patient, but Graham, who has MS, says many patients are surprised by what PT entails.

    “Physical therapy is not necessarily a big time or money commitment,” Graham says. “There are a lot of things that physical therapists can do to just help people function better. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor whether you might need a referral for physical therapy. A lot of people think they have to just live with the symptoms they have. But we can help a lot.”

KEEP ON MOVING

    A wide range of devices exist that can help manage the physical symptoms of MS. These so-called “assistive tools” make particular functions easier to perform, and can be prescribed by occupational or physical therapists. Check with your health insurance provider to see what physical and/or occupational therapy treatments it covers.

Some examples of mobility aids include:

•   Orthotics—lightweight inserts worn in shoes; increase stability and decrease fatigue
   
•   Canes—most useful when one leg is weaker than the other; should be held on the body’s stronger side
   
•   Walking Aids—these medical devices leverages functional electrical stimulation (FES) to improve the walking ability of people living with foot drop
   
•   Walkers—can provide support for maintaining balance, especially in the presence of significant leg weakness
   
•   Wheelchairs/Scooters—often recommended when patients suffer from falls; electronic scooters are often available at grocery stores, airports, and other large buildings, making for a less physically taxing shopping or travel experience

next page >>