Multiple sclerosis(MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. While early symptoms such as weakness, tingling, and numbness might seem minor, more severe symptoms can drastically impact your quality of life.
Multiple sclerosis can lead to a variety of symptoms such as memory loss, fatigue, and lack of coordination, all of which make it difficult for individuals to perform tasks that used to seem easy. And while the symptoms of multiple sclerosis cannot be reversed, occupational therapy can help individuals slow the progression of the disease and regain control of their life as they adapt to changes in their bodies.
A licensed occupational therapist can help you manage symptoms caused by multiple sclerosis by:
- Providing you with tools to more easily perform everyday tasks. Multiple sclerosis can make it hard for you to perform everyday tasks. An occupational therapist can work with you to modify your environment to make it easier for you to stay organized and easily go about your daily routine.
- Making the proper modifications to your environment. An occupational therapist can help you assess your home, work, or school environment to identify and eliminate any potential hazards. They can also work with you to make adjustments that allow you to more easily conduct everyday activities.
- Working with you to improve strength and coordination. Multiple sclerosis can lead to loss of strength and coordination in the hands, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks like getting dressed. A licensed occupational therapist can recommend exercises that will help you improve your coordination over time.
- Helping you improve your cognitive performance. Cognitive rehabilitation can help you adapt to and manage symptoms such as memory loss and lack of concentration.
If you are dealing with multiple sclerosis, occupational therapy can help you live a more active and fulfilling life. For more information on how occupational therapy can benefit those suffering from MS, we invite you to contact our clinic.