From the Research
Physiotherapy is strongly indicated for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to improve mobility, reduce spasticity, and enhance overall quality of life. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2024 1, demonstrates the effectiveness of consultative, proactive physical therapy in early MS, highlighting the importance of early intervention and individualized exercise programs.
Key Benefits of Physiotherapy in MS
- Improves mobility and balance
- Reduces spasticity and fatigue
- Enhances overall quality of life
- Supports neuroplasticity and compensation for demyelination damage
- Maintains muscle mass, improves cardiovascular health, and reduces inflammation
Recommended Physiotherapy Interventions
- Individualized exercise programs focusing on strength training, balance exercises, stretching, and aerobic conditioning
- Specific techniques like gait training, vestibular rehabilitation, and aquatic therapy
- Robot-Assisted Gait Training (RAGT) for severe MS patients, as shown to be effective in improving performance on the 6-minute walk test, 10-metre walk test, fatigue severity scale, and Berg Balance Scale 2
Coordination with Other MS Treatments
Physiotherapy should be coordinated with other MS treatments, including medication management, and adjusted during periods of relapse or symptom exacerbation. A proactive physical therapy approach, as described in the 2024 study 1, can facilitate increased exercise and improve functional outcomes in MS patients.
Evidence Base
The evidence base for physiotherapy in MS is supported by multiple studies, including a systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2018 3, which found beneficial effects of exercise therapy, particularly robot gait training and outpatient exercise programs, on self-perceived spasticity and muscle tone. Another study published in 2022 2 found that RAGT improved performance on various mobility-related outcomes in severe MS patients. Overall, the current evidence suggests that physiotherapy is a safe and beneficial option for managing MS symptoms and improving quality of life.