Library Articles
Flying Solo with Multiple Sclerosis
By: Peggy Crawford, PhD & Linda Walls, OTR
Some people with MS fly solo by choice, some by circumstance and others for a combination of reasons. In whichever ways people find themselves flying solo with MS, it seems to help if they view this unanticipated life event as a series of challenges (rather than threats). MS provides opportunities (and a kick in the butt) to pursue a healthier lifestyle, plan ahead and exercise more control over various aspects of life. Coping with MS in these proactive ways helps people maintain greater independence. During this process, many people discover strengths and abilities they didn’t know they had or they under appreciated.
Continue ReadingRebounding from an MS Relapse
By: Gail Hartley, MSN, NP, MSCN & Susan Kushner, MS, PT
Just like the disease itself, relapses and recovery in MS can be highly variable. You may have a mild exacerbation or one that may require numerous changes for you. No matter the extent of relapse, it is possible for you to maintain an exercise program during and after recovery.
Continue ReadingStaying Vertical: Reduce Risk for Falls
By: Ann Mullinix, OTR/L & Kathy San Martino, PT, NCS, MSCS, CLT, ATP
Are falls an integral part of your MS experience? They don’t need to be. Are you afraid of falling, and therefore, avoid activities? Do people tell you you’re overestimating your abilities and being unsafe?
Continue ReadingMultiple Sclerosis and Applying for Disability Benefits - An Introduction
By: Lisa Giorgetti, Community Liason, Social Security Disability Help
Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or caring for someone who does can put a financial strain on your life and keep you from being able to work. Social Security Disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) can help ease that strain and provide an opportunity to live a more comfortable life.
Continue ReadingManaging Your Mood and Cognition issues with MS
By: Peggy Crawford, PhD & Jeff Hodgson, SLP
Some symptoms in MS, such as changes in mood and cognition, seem to be more challenging than other symptoms for individuals with MS and the people who care about them. There are several factors that likely contribute to the challenging nature of these symptoms.
Continue ReadingGetting the Most Out of Your Medical Visit
By: David Rintell, EdD & Lynn Stazzone, RN, BSN, MSN, NP
Stay healthier by becoming an active member of your own healthcare team! Multiple sclerosis is a complex neurological disease which often changes over time. There are now many treatments which can modify the disease, called DMTs or disease modifying treatments. There are also many treatments which help to improve or alleviate symptoms. Although the new treatment options are hopeful, understanding all of the potential benefits and risks to these treatments can sometimes be overwhelming.
Continue ReadingCommunication is a Two-Way Street
By: Beth Bullard, OTR & Rosalind Kalb, PhD
Healthy productive communication abilities are not inherent. They are learned and developed. Our life experiences frame the foundation for how we perceive each other and form relationships. Healthy relationships depend on good communication, mutual respect and trust. Communication is far more than the words we speak. The way we say the words and how they are received impact the success of the message. When we are able to communicate effectively, we connect, and these connections establish and strengthen our relationships.
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For Women With MS: Making Decisions About Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & More
By: Elizabeth Salas, MPH, Teratology Information Specialist, MotherToBaby California
If you have Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and are currently pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy, where do you go when you have questions about MS or MS treatments? In this day and age, the first place you might go is the Internet. With no shortage of information at our fingertips, it may seem the answers to all of our questions are just a web search away. But when it comes to chronic conditions and treatments in pregnancy, reliable and accurate information isn’t always easy to find, and the answers may not be so simple. So let’s try a different approach, shall we? First, let’s start with the facts!
Continue ReadingHealthy Eating & Multiple Sclerosis
By: Aliza Ben-Zacharia, ANP, DNP, MS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease which affects the function of the brain, spinal cord and/or the nerves to the eyes. Many patients who suffer from MS look for ways to improve and increase their quality of lives. Good nutrition is among the cornerstones of health-promotion activities. Maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly are essential for promoting wellness and well-being and enhancing quality of life.
Continue ReadingUpdate Your Outlook on Progressive MS
By: Rosalind Kalb, PhD & Patricia Kennedy, RN, CNP, MSCN
The words “progressive MS” can set off alarm bells. No one wants to hear that his or her MS is, or has become, progressive. The term “progressive MS” applies to different aspects of the disease, and it helps to know how it is being used. Approximately 85% of people are initially diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting MS. At some point in their disease course, typically after 10-15 years, relapses become less frequent or stop occurring completely, the disease progresses more consistently but not necessarily more rapidly, and changes in function become more pronounced.
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