What is multiple sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. It can affect mobility, coordination, vision, speech, and thinking, and it looks different from person to person.
There is no cure yet, but medical treatment and rehabilitation can help manage symptoms and slow progression. With the right support, people with MS can build strategies to maintain function, adapt to changes, and keep doing the activities that matter to them.
Common signs and challenges
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Stiffness or spasticity
- Trouble with balance and walking
- Poor coordination
- Changes in speech clarity or voice
- Difficulty swallowing
- Memory or attention changes
How therapy may help
Every plan starts with an evaluation. Which disciplines are involved depends on your goals and what the evaluation shows.
What to expect at Empowerize
Your therapist works one-on-one with you or your child to build a customized treatment plan. We collaborate with your referring physician and give regular updates on your plan of care. Families and caregivers are included in goal setting and home strategies.
Questions families ask about multiple sclerosis
Will exercise make my MS fatigue worse?
The right kind of exercise, paced well, often helps. Your physical therapist will build a plan that fits your energy levels and teaches you how to conserve energy through the day.
Can therapy help during or after an MS relapse?
Yes. Therapy can help you regain function after a relapse and adjust your plan as symptoms change.
Does MS affect speech and swallowing?
It can. Many people with MS notice changes in speech clarity, voice, or swallowing. A speech-language pathologist can evaluate and treat these changes.