MS Physiotherapists
Physiotherapy can be of great benefit to people with multiple sclerosis (MS). It helps maintain independence by improving symptoms such as fatigue and tremor, as well as preventing loss of mobility, strength and balance. The MS Society has established a special programme of grant-giving, education, information and research for providers. This is supported by the NICE Guideline on MS, which states that people with MS should have access to physiotherapy as and when it is required.
The key aspects of this programme are:
Understandable information for people with MS on how physiotherapy can help them
To test which service models work best, the MS Society, in collaboration with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and MS Research and Relief Fund, piloted four new MS physiotherapy services. The services were all very different in nature:
• Specialist physiotherapy as part of a multidisciplinary MS relapse clinic.
• 14-week education, advice and exercise programme, in a hospital setting, for people with minimal impairment.
• Six-week fatigue management programme in a respite care centre.
• Physiotherapy in a range of community and hospital settings in a rural area.
All were found to be beneficial to people with MS, and it is hoped these service models will be reproduced in other areas. Another achievement has been identifying where more research and information is needed about MS specific physiotherapy. An MS Society funded study reviewed all research on MS physiotherapy to date. The results showed more information is needed about how effective exercise and physiotherapy is for maintaining independence for people with MS. In response to this, the MS Society has now committed funding to research in this area.
What will happen next?
To ensure this good work continues, the MS Society now has funding for further full or part-time positions (apply below). Research proposals examining the role of exercise and physiotherapy in maintaining the independence of people with MS are also welcomed, and funding is available to support research in this area. MS Society local branches often also give funding and practical help to local NHS services to improve services in their area. Partnership working has been a success in the past and it is hoped this will continue in the future.
A statement of policy and guidance for applicants and an application form to the MS Specialist Fund.
