Multiple Sclerosis

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a long-term neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering (myelin) around nerve fibres, disrupting the messages travelling between the brain and the rest of the body.

MS affects everyone differently, and symptoms can vary over time. Common symptoms include muscle weakness, fatigue, balance problems, reduced coordination, altered sensation, muscle stiffness (spasticity), walking difficulties, dizziness and changes in vision. Some people experience periods of relapse and recovery, while others notice a gradual progression of symptoms.

Although there is currently no cure for MS, physiotherapy can play a vital role in helping people manage symptoms, maintain independence and improve their quality of life.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Physiotherapy is an important part of managing Multiple Sclerosis and can help you remain active, maintain mobility and reduce the impact of symptoms on everyday life. At Greenacre Physio, we develop personalised rehabilitation programmes tailored to your individual symptoms, abilities and goals.

Treatment may include:

Walking and gait retraining
Balance and coordination exercises
Strength and endurance training
Stretching to manage muscle stiffness and spasticity
Fatigue management and pacing strategies
Functional rehabilitation for everyday activities
Falls prevention
Exercise programmes to maintain long-term mobility
Advice on remaining active safely
Mobility aid assessment and guidance where appropriate

Our rehabilitation focuses on helping you stay as independent and active as possible while adapting to changes in your condition over time.

Why Choose Greenacre Physio?

At Greenacre Physio, our clinicians have extensive experience supporting people living with Multiple Sclerosis through specialist NHS neurological services and private practice. We understand the complex and varied nature of MS and appreciate that no two people experience the condition in the same way.

We provide evidence-based, goal-focused rehabilitation designed around your lifestyle and priorities. Whether your aim is improving walking, reducing falls, managing fatigue, maintaining fitness or increasing confidence, we will work with you to develop a programme that supports your long-term wellbeing.

Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through home visits and virtual consultations, making specialist neurological rehabilitation accessible wherever you are.

What to Expect

Your first appointment will involve a detailed assessment of your mobility, balance, strength, flexibility, fatigue, functional abilities and personal goals. We will discuss how your MS affects your daily life and identify the areas where physiotherapy can have the greatest impact.

Following your assessment, you will receive a personalised rehabilitation programme designed to maximise your mobility, maintain independence and help you continue participating in the activities that are important to you. Your treatment will be regularly reviewed and adapted as your symptoms or goals change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physiotherapy help if my MS is progressive?

Yes. Physiotherapy can benefit people with all types of Multiple Sclerosis, including progressive MS. Treatment focuses on maintaining mobility, reducing complications, improving confidence and supporting independence at every stage of the condition.

Will exercise make my MS worse?

For most people, regular exercise is safe and beneficial. A physiotherapist can help you exercise at the right intensity while managing fatigue and avoiding overexertion.

Can physiotherapy help with fatigue?

Yes. Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of MS. Physiotherapy can provide pacing strategies, energy conservation techniques and graded exercise programmes to help improve endurance and make everyday activities more manageable.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio, although we also accept referrals from neurologists, GPs and other healthcare professionals.

Book an Appointment

If you are living with Multiple Sclerosis and would like specialist neurological physiotherapy, we're here to help. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics, arrange a home visit, or schedule a virtual consultation with one of our experienced neurological physiotherapists.