This is the most common neurological condition affecting young adults. In the UK 85000 people have MS. It is important to stress that symptoms vary greatly from person to person and that everyone will have different experiences of the disease.

MS is a condition caused by damage to the protective, insulating coating surrounding the nerve fibres of the central nervous system. This interferes with the messages from the brain to the body and so movement, co-ordination and sensation may be affected. This can lead to problems with walking, balance, muscle spasm, fatigue and pain.

Physiotherapy provided on an individual basis could include a tailored exercise programme to improve strength, co-ordination, flexibility and balance as appropriate. It is important to maintain mobility and prevent complications from disuse, spasm or compensatory movement patterns. Postural advice to reduce spasms and advice on fatigue management may be helpful to conserve energy.

Some patients will need a more extensive multidisciplinary approach with input from several professional groups.