Physiotherapy

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New members of our Centre are assessed by our physiotherapists (or physios, for short) to learn about any issues they have related to MS. A personal programme is then worked out to meet their needs.

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A programme might say they should visit the Centre once or twice a week for individual treatment, using our equipment (for example, a standing frame, or hand/leg bike). They can also join the weekly exercise classes. We could also recommend going to a local gym, or doing a home exercise programme, and coming back to the Centre quite often for reviews and updates.

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Physiotherapy helps people with MS to strengthen muscles, maintain control and balance and reduce spasticity. Physiotherapy programmes are designed to help maximise movement and mobility, helping to keep existing abilities.

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Exercise Classes

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We run a weekly exercise class in four-week blocks. Exercising regularly keeps your body working to its full potential. The exercise class at the Centre is specially devised for people with MS, and led by our physiotherapists; you can join in whatever your level of fitness but a certain level of mobility is needed.

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Exercise and MS symptoms

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• Fatigue. Exercise can help improve strength, fitness and mood — all of which can help you to manage your fatigue/tiredness.

• Balance and walking. Physiotherapy programmes, outdoor walking and aerobics can help people improve their balance and walking.

• Muscle spasms or stiffness. Stretching and exercises are a key part of treating and managing muscle spasms or stiffness.

• Bladder and bowel. Keeping physically active may help some people with bowel control. Studies have found that people with MS had improvements in their bowel functions after taking part in a 15-week course of aerobic training.

• Low mood, anxiety or depression. If issues such as low mood, anxiety or depression arise, exercise may help. Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to help with mild to moderate depression.