Recently a 71 year old lady presented herself to the clinic, she had been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) 40 years prior and was feeling very disillusioned at having to rely so heavily on a walking aid to assist her. Her husband had passed away 6 months earlier and she felt that it was time she gained some more confidence in herself to perform everyday tasks at home and do small trips to the shops without needing a walking stick.

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective covering of the nerves which disrupts the communication between the brain and the rest of the body. This has a major effect on balance and coordination and can cause many aches and pains.

This particular patient had seen a number of specialists and general practitioners since her initial diagnosis, however up until this time the sole approach had been to manage her symptoms with medication only.

Our initial consultation consisted of a global assessment of her body. During this assessment we established that due to the way she had been walking and compensating for so many years, the muscles in her legs and lower back had been affected. She had also developed quite a severe ‘hunch’ through her shoulders and upper body due to continuous use of her walking aid.

Hands on we were able to do light massage through the affected areas and also incorporated superficial dry needling which was very beneficial. As we progressed I was able to give her simple balance exercises to complete at home before referring her to an exercise physiologist who was able to write a full program with both balance and strengthening exercises.

Since then we have been able to progress to maintenance treatments once a month for general maintenance to ensure that her muscles remain at their full capability. The client reports that she has never felt so independent and confident. She is able to perform tasks at home without requiring her walking aid and she also frequently does a quick shopping trip without it. She now goes for daily walks which she can finally enjoy without being too worried or uncomfortable with her own physical capabilities.

Contact one of our highly qualified health practitioners today.

Amanda Mower – Elite Myotherapist