Was PT helpful for you?

[sussuido]

Hi everyone!

I'm 57 and I was diagnosed just about two years ago, have been on Avonex about 1 1/2 yrs. It's been working ok - no new signs of progression as far as the MRI's go. However, over the last few months I've experienced increasing stiffness and weakness in my legs and my hands....to the point where it's limiting me. I find myself trying to avoid situations where I know it'll be difficult for me to manage or worse, not be able to get thru a special date night with my hubby or a family occasion.

My specialist prescribed ampyra, which had no positive results. He thought PT might be more beneficial. I'm up for anything that will help and I'm curious to hear from those who are/or have been seeing a physical therapist - and what your results have been. I'll be starting PT soon and was wondering what benefits/downfalls I may encounter along the way.

Thanks in advance for your comments and/or advice. B strong, all!!

** Moderator's note - Post broken into paragraphs for easier reading. Many people with MS have visual difficulties that prevent them from reading large blocks of print. **

[misslux]

All benefit, no downside.

My PT has shown me safe and MS-friendly exercises, how to listen to my body, what to pay attention to as far as my gait, what to concentrate on, what not to overdo, how to use assistive devices properly, how to get up off the floor efficiently, how to navigate stairs and curbs... the list goes on.

I have permanent mobility issues and PT has really helped me be a little more independent and also gave me back some confidence. I am a big fan of PT!

[Seasha]

I've had years of PT and I found that the PT who had experience working with pwMS was the most helpful.. Another benefit of PT, in addition to all misslux mentioned, was an exercise plan to take home with me during my sessions and afterwards. The only downfall was when I didn't follow up with the exercises. And clearly my fault!

Good luck and hope it's helpful for you!

[misslux]

^^ Yes! Definitely get a PT who is experienced with people with MS and who will provide you with at home exercises.

[football-mom]

Thank you for this thread. I started pt for gait training this morning and was wondering if others found it helpful.

I liked the girls I met this morning, one was an intern. They tested me for about 90 minutes until I had to call time. They sent me home with exercises, and tried in vain to get me to switch my cane to my left hand. Once I stabilize a little bit I will try.

[heliotrope]

I'd also suggest that you encourage the PT to extend your schedule. Most PT is scheduled 2-3 times a week. If you break it up (go once every few weeks after the first few times), you'll be able to change your exercise plan as your symptoms change.

[SNOOPY]

I have been in PT twice and found it beneficial both times.

It is important to continue the PT exercises at home even after you are no longer seeing a PT.

[SNOOPY]

They sent me home with exercises, and tried in vain to get me to switch my cane to my left hand. Once I stabilize a little bit I will try.

I am not a person who is very fond of canes. Balance and bi-lateral leg weakness makes canes dangerous...in my opinion.

The last time I was in PT we discussed the use of Trekking Poles. With the help of my Physical Therapist and practice Trekking Poles are what I use when I need something.

[misslux]

I liked the girls I met this morning, one was an intern. They tested me for about 90 minutes until I had to call time. They sent me home with exercises, and tried in vain to get me to switch my cane to my left hand. Once I stabilize a little bit I will try.

Let me guess, is your weak side your right side? If so, then yes, the cane should be in your left hand.

[Mamabug]

I found PT to be VERY helpful.

Following my first flare, I was undiagnosed/misdx. I'd been on no meds, because doctors thought stroke was the most likely cause of my symptoms at the time. I'd been hoping for recovery for about 2 months, with very little change until I began PT.

Within days of what seemed to me, at the time, like very simple-ton exercise that could not possibly help, I saw quick and significant improvement. When I went back for my second PT appt, I told the physical therapist, I'm hooked; I'm convinced. Whatever you tell me to do, I'll cooperate!

~ Faith

[misslux]

I am not a person who is very fond of canes. Balance and bi-lateral leg weakness makes canes dangerous...in my opinion.

I think it depends on the person and what is affected. There's no way I would be able to use trekking poles due to spasticity in my right arm. If I am going a far-ish distance (like to an appointment in a hospital), I will use my rollator, which I was taught to use properly in PT as well.

[football-mom]

Let me guess, is your weak side your right side? If so, then yes, the cane should be in your left hand.

Actually I'm weak in all four right now, but my right is worse. My left hand cannot control the cane well enough to be useful, so I just don't feel so assured with it in the left.

[misslux]

Have you considered a rollator until you're better? A lot more stability!

[Windwalker]

PT is about keeping the capabilities you have for as long as you can. If your an "out of shape" person, increasing strength and muscle tone, especially in your core, will help with standing, balance, etc.

You will gain strength through PT but this can easily be offset by further progression of the disease. PT will do nothing to slow or stop disease progression.

I see nothing but benefits by doing PT. Given your age, your disease course is almost certainly progressive...(no hate mail please). Doing PT on a consistent basis could give you additional years of mobility IMHO. Best of luck.

[sussuido]

You guys rock!! Thank you so much for your feedback!!

Alot of you mentioned working with a MS PT therapist, which I think would be the best course. However, I'm fortunate enough to work at a company who provides on-site health specialists; i.e. acccupunture, reflexology, nutritionists and physical therapists. These professionals attempt to provide their services based upon the employee's needs. Right now, I'm thinking I'll start with them and switch to a MS therapist if I'm not seeing results.

I defintely appreciate the positive responses you've provided. Only once in my life I had to do PT (badly sprained ankle) and yes, it helped. I was just having difficulty grasping that with training and a faithful exercise routine, I may be able to gain a little ground on this annoying and life-distrupting interruption we call MS.

I'll let you know how it goes. Best wishes to all in your fight. B strong!!!

J