Multiple Sclerosis: A Literature Review

Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a demyelinating disease of the Central Nervous System (CNS), is the most common cause of nontraumatic disability affecting young adults in the United States. The resultant lesions lead to a variety of symptoms which include: weakness, sensory disturbances, visual problems, spasticity, fatigue, and paralysis. There are also a number of psychological and emotional issues that the MS patient must face. The cause of MS remains unknown and the diagnosis is often difficult. The course and severity of the disease varies from patient to patient. There is no known cure or prevention. Current treatments include drug therapy, physical therapy, patient and family education, and other allied health services such as occupational and speech therapies. It is important for the health professional working with MS patients to have a good overall knowledge of the information available in order to provide appropriate and comprehensive treatment. This paper is a review of the current literature available on the cause, diagnosis, treatments and effects of Multiple Sclerosis. It is intended to aid the physical therapist or any other allied health professional in understanding and gaining additional knowledge about MS in order to better serve their patients