Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease which affects the insulating part of the nerves and makes the carrying of signals down the nerves patchy. As muscles work through signals being carried down the nerves, this affects movement. It is a very difficult disease to diagnose and often the process of finding out that it is multiple sclerosis is a long and difficult one for the person affected and their family.

Sometimes putting a label on the symptoms can be a relief but with the diagnosis comes worries about the course of the disease, which is unpredictable. There are two main types :

• a relapsing and remitting type, when the person has 'bouts' of MS which are difficult periods, followed by some recovery
• the more progressive type.

Many people have MS for many years without it interfering greatly with what they want to do while others have much more trouble. MS affects each person differently. Different parts of the nervous system can be affected and this leads to a wide variety of symptoms.

At heads up! we like to see people soon after their diagnosis. This helps us to explain things to them, talk through their concerns and worries, and address any problems they might be having.

We also see patients with a chronic condition and those who have had a relapse, often 2 or 3 years after their diagnosis.

A programme of stretching and exercise is beneficial and we will tailor it to each person's requirements . General advice on fatigue and lifestyle can help too.

After diagnosis, we would recommend 2 or 3 visits followed by a review visit every year. After a relapse, there is a need for more intensive treatment and we would recommend 8-12 visits followed by a review visit every 3-6 months.

However some people want a good move and stretch more regularly, and may want to come for a fortnightly or monthly visit.

To discuss how we may be able to help you or one of your family members, please contact Sally Watt, our Practice Manager, on (01306) 888171.

We see patients from all over the South-East (and sometimes further afield) at our practice outside Dorking in Surrey, which is close to the M25, and at the clinics we hold in Kingston, Roehampton and Sevenoaks.