How to Keep Yourself at The "Top of Your Game" with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

When is the right time to start physical therapy?

It is ideal to get started with a physical therapist when you first receive your MS diagnosis.  A physical therapist will help you preventatively and establish a baseline even if you are not having symptoms with your strength, balance, or mobility. 

I often describe a fitness continuum as follows:

Try to keep yourself “at the top of your game” (to the right of the arrow above). If your strength, balance, endurance, flexibility, and mobility are optimized, you will be less likely to feel a significant change during times of illness, injury, and/or exacerbations. Also, refer to the following diagram:

If you have been previously diagnosed with MS, it is still the right time to connect with a physical therapist.  Like in many medical conditions, early intervention is key.  Everyone has room for improvement with their fitness level whether or not they have a MS diagnosis.  So let’s get started exercising and be sure to follow any precautions outlined by your healthcare provider!

A bit about Julie...Julie Hom, MPT, NCS is a physical therapist specializing in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis and balance and fall prevention.  She is a Neurologic Certified Specialist (NCS) through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) which is a certification confirming higher skills and knowledge with respect to neurological disorders. Click here to read more about Julie...http://www.healthcarejourney.com/read-about-our-virtual-ms-center-staff.html

Note:  the information that is being provided is for "Advice Only" for individuals in California.