Laura K. Miller,
PT, Ed.D., NCS, MSCS, ATP
Therapy Usage Among Individuals with Multiple
Sclerosis
Multiple
Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive, neurologic disease with widespread
symptoms including impairments in vision, mobility, and cognition. The purpose of this study was to examine the
usage of rehabilitation services in this region and understand barriers to
rehab among patients with MS.
Eighty-nine participants completed a voluntary online survey which
included nineteen questions about their disease and experiences with
rehab. Additional questions were asked
about their knowledge, beliefs and any barriers related to rehab. Half of surveyed participants are not active
in regular exercise, despite current literature that shows the benefits of
exercise. One third of individuals
surveyed are unaware of the benefits of various types of rehabilitation. Around fifty percent of participants
expressed interest in learning more about nutrition, supplements, exercise,
stress management and stretching. These
results highlight the need for continued patient education regarding management
of MS symptoms.
