Does Physiotherapy Help with MS? Helpful Guide to Therapy
- Gavin Williams
- Apr 24, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Physiotherapy can help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) improve movement, reduce stiffness, manage fatigue, and stay independent. Many people with MS find that physiotherapy makes daily tasks like walking, standing, and balancing easier.
Both UK and US health experts recommend physiotherapy as a key part of MS care.
This article explains how physiotherapy helps with MS, what exercises are used, what the research says, and how to find the right support for you.
How Does Physiotherapy Help with MS?
Physiotherapy focuses on helping you move more easily and confidently. It targets common challenges in MS such as muscle weakness, balance problems, stiffness, and fatigue.
With the support of a physiotherapist, you can:
Move more easily and safely
Improve balance to reduce the risk of falls
Ease muscle stiffness through gentle stretching
Learn to manage tiredness by pacing your activities
Adapt daily tasks and use helpful equipment to stay independent
Clinical guidelines from the UK’s NICE and the MS Society, as well as the US National MS Society, recommend personalised physiotherapy programmes as part of managing MS symptoms.
What Exercises Are Used in Physiotherapy for MS?
Your physiotherapist will design exercises based on your needs and abilities. These often include:
Strengthening exercises to build muscle and improve movement
Balance training to increase stability and prevent falls
Stretching to reduce tightness and improve flexibility
Aerobic activities like walking or swimming to boost energy and mood
Fatigue management techniques to help you conserve energy and pace yourself
A large 2022 review [1] found that exercise-based rehabilitation helps improve strength, reduce fatigue, and support walking ability in people with all levels of MS.
What Does the Research Say?
Research and national guidelines support physiotherapy as an important part of MS care:
In 2022, NICE [2] recommended resistance training and aerobic exercise for all people with MS, including those with advanced symptoms.
The US National MS Society [3] advises early and ongoing physiotherapy to reduce disability and maintain mobility.
Recent studies show that people following personalised physiotherapy plans experience improved strength, balance, and energy levels.
The key is a plan tailored to your individual needs and adjusted as your MS changes.
How Do I Find the Right Physiotherapist?
It’s best to find a physiotherapist experienced in neurological conditions like MS. They understand how symptoms change and can adapt your treatment as needed.
In the UK, you can ask your GP or MS nurse for a referral, or search the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy directory online. In the US, the American Physical Therapy Association has a search tool to find qualified physios near you.
Whether through NHS, private clinics, or MS centres, what matters most is that you feel supported and understood.
What If I’m Having a Tough Time?
You don’t need to feel your best to start physiotherapy. It’s often most helpful when symptoms feel harder. Physios can meet you where you are, including at home or through online sessions. Even small steps can make a big difference.
They can also help you use equipment like walking aids or grab rails to keep you safe and independent.
Final Thoughts
Physiotherapy can help people with MS move more confidently, feel less stiff and tired, and stay active in the ways that matter most. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have lived with MS for years, it’s never too early or too late to ask for support.
Speak to your healthcare team to find physiotherapy services near you. You deserve care that helps you live well with MS.
If you’ve found this helpful and you’d like articles on any other health and wellness subject then contact me at gavinwilliamscopywriter@gmail.com
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