Treating MS

MS is often a manageable condition. The goal of treatment is to reduce flares and prevent recurrences. We work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and needs. Your plan may include:

Medication Therapy Management for MS 

Our neurologists have extensive knowledge of MS medications and how to use them effectively. We work closely with Memorial Neuroscience Institute pharmacists to manage your medications. Pharmacists secure insurance coverage for medications. They also arrange to coordinate infusions through Memorial Healthcare System, other infusion centers or at your home. 

• Disease-modifying medications: These medicines suppress your immune system to prevent recurrences. There are many types of disease-modifying medications. They come in different forms, including pills, injections and intravenous (IV) infusions.
• Corticosteroids: These drugs help reduce inflammation, prevent myelin damage and speed recovery. You typically receive these drugs intravenously.
• Plasma exchange: We exchange the liquid part of your blood (plasma) with another fluid. This process removes the proteins your immune system produces to attack myelin (antibodies). 

At Memorial Rehabilitation Institute, you have access to other neurorehabilitation therapies, including:

• Baclofen pump: Baclofen is an antispasticity medication. We surgically implant a pump under your skin and a thin tube that runs to your spine. The pump delivers baclofen to the fluid around your spinal cord. 
• Botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin is a substance produced by bacteria that has many medical uses. Injecting it into muscles can reduce muscle contractions and spasticity.

Rehabilitation 

Memorial Rehabilitation Institute provides physical therapy and occupational therapy, which can improve movement and reduce spasticity. Rehabilitation services include:

• Physical Therapy: Exercise is also essential to improve endurance, strength and flexibility. Our physical therapists can recommend exercises for your ability level to help you get moving. 
• Functional electrical stimulation (FES): In this treatment, you wear a device that delivers painless electrical impulses to affected muscles. The stimulation helps you move your muscles better. We use FES most often to treat weakness in the legs, feet and hands.

Our therapists also ensure you have the necessary assistive devices, such as braces, canes, walkers and wheelchairs.

Behavioral Health 

An essential part of our care is monitoring patients for mental health concerns such as depression and other conditions. We provide care within Memorial’s Neuroscience Institute and also collaborate with other departments based on the patient’s need. 

• Outpatient Behavioral Health: When needed, we coordinate referrals for treatment with our outpatient behavioral health team. Treatment and therapies include psychotherapy, access to our Mind/Body Wellness Clinic (which includes therapies such as massage, yoga and acupuncture), and support groups.

Neuropsychology

MS can cause changes in your brain that affect different functions. You may find it difficult to remember things, make decisions or find the right words. As part of your MS care, we may recommend neuropsychological testing. These specialized tests dive deep into how your brain works to help us identify and track changes over time. 

Leaders in Multiple Sclerosis Care

Memorial Neuroscience Institute has been recognized by the National MS Society  as a Center for Comprehensive MS Care. This distinction reflects the deep expertise of our neurologists, our team-based approach and care based on the latest research and guidelines.

Learn more about our Multiple Sclerosis Center and what sets us apart.