Physical Therapy for MS

MS is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers in the central nervous system. This disrupts communication between the brain and body, leading to a wide range of symptoms that vary from person to person.

Comprehensive and Personalized Care

Each individual with MS has unique needs, symptoms, and goals. Dr. Chuck tailors every treatment plan to your specific situation—providing thoughtful, individualized care that meets you where you are and supports steady, functional progress.

A Positive Outlook on Progress

Many people with MS hear only negative expectations—but that’s not the full story. While MS is often progressive, physical therapy can help improve function, reduce secondary symptoms, and enhance quality of life. Progress may be gradual, but it is possible with the right approach.

Overcoming Secondary Symptoms

Weakness, tightness, and poor balance are often secondary to reduced movement—not caused directly by MS. That’s good news, because secondary deficits tend to respond well to therapy. Strengthening exercises, stretching, and balance training can restore lost function, especially if you haven’t been moving much recently.

Slowing Disease Progression

Progressive forms of MS—such as Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive, and Progressive Relapsing—require consistent effort to maintain mobility. The principle “if you don’t use it, you lose it” applies even more strongly to individuals with MS. Dr. Chuck focuses on movement-based therapy to help slow functional decline and preserve daily independence.

The Role of Exercise

Exercise is a core component of MS management. While it’s important to avoid overexertion, being overly cautious can hinder progress. Research supports resistance training to build strength and fitness in individuals with MS. Dr. Chuck provides guided, appropriately dosed exercise to help you move forward safely.

Managing Spasticity

Spasticity—tight, stiff muscles—is a common symptom in MS. Dr. Chuck addresses it through a combination of walking, stretching, and targeted exercise. He also provides guidance for discussing medication options with your neurologist, if needed.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)

NMES sends electrical impulses to specific muscle groups to produce contractions. It’s particularly useful for addressing severe weakness or spasticity. Since MS affects the brain and spinal cord (not peripheral nerves), NMES can bypass central damage and directly stimulate peripheral nerves—improving mobility and muscle function when voluntary movement is limited.

Addressing Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle elements like sleep, nutrition, and daily habits play a significant role in MS symptom management. Dr. Chuck provides education and guidance to help you better understand how these factors influence your condition—and how to modify them for improved outcomes.

MS presents unique challenges, but physical therapy with Dr. Chuck and Mobile Physio offers personalized support to improve function, slow decline, and enhance your quality of life—all from the comfort of home.