Did you know that multiple sclerosis (MS) affects 1 in 1000 people in Australia? It is most often diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, and is more common in women.
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It happens when the immune system attacks the protective coating around nerves, called myelin. This can disrupt the way messages travel between the brain and the rest of the body.
For people living with MS, this can lead to changes in mobility, balance, coordination and energy levels. Everyday activities like walking, standing, or getting in and out of a chair may become harder over time.
While there is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis, multiple sclerosis physiotherapy can play an important role in helping people manage symptoms and maintain their independence.
In this article, we explain what multiple sclerosis is, some of the physical symptoms it may cause, and how physiotherapy for MS sufferers may help support mobility, balance and everyday function.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. When the immune system damages the protective layer surrounding nerve fibres, the signals travelling between the brain and the body are disrupted.
This can lead to a wide range of symptoms depending on which nerves are affected.
Some people with MS have times when symptoms improve, while others notice gradual changes over time. Because MS affects everyone differently, treatment and support are tailored to each person.
Multiple sclerosis and physiotherapy often work together as part of a broader management plan to support mobility and daily function.
Common Symptoms Managed by Physiotherapy
The symptoms of multiple sclerosis can vary from person to person, but many people experience physical changes that affect movement and balance.
Some of the common symptoms that physiotherapy for MS sufferers may help manage include:
- Muscle weakness
- Spasticity (muscle stiffness or tightness)
- Balance and coordination difficulties
- Fatigue and reduced endurance
- Walking or mobility challenges
- Reduced flexibility
These symptoms can make everyday tasks more challenging and may increase the risk of falls or injury.
This is where multiple sclerosis physiotherapy can play an important role, helping MS sufferers feel more supported in their movement, manage symptoms more effectively, and carry on with everyday activities as independently as possible.
Does Physiotherapy Help Multiple Sclerosis?
While physiotherapy cannot cure MS, it can help people manage symptoms and maintain their physical abilities.
To answer the question: Does physiotherapy help multiple sclerosis? Physiotherapists focus on improving movement, strength and balance, so you can keep doing the activities that matter most to you.
A physiotherapist from an NDIS provider, or a physiotherapist working with privately funded or age care clients, will usually start with a detailed assessment of your mobility, strength and coordination. From there, they will develop a personalised treatment plan to support your goals.
Multiple sclerosis physiotherapy management may include:
- Strengthening exercises to support muscles
- Balance and coordination training
- Stretching to reduce muscle stiffness and spasticity
- Gait training to improve walking ability
- Fatigue management strategies
- Functional exercises to support everyday activities
Physiotherapy helps the brain adapt and build new connections, a process known as neuroplasticity. Through specific exercises and movement practice, physiotherapy teaches the body new ways to move and manage daily tasks. This might involve practising walking safely at home, getting up from a chair, climbing stairs, or working on balance during everyday activities. These supports can help you move with more confidence and keep you active in your daily routine.
The Valens Care Approach
At Valens Care, we understand that living with multiple sclerosis can affect many areas of daily life.
Our experienced physiotherapists provide mobile services across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast, supporting older Australians, NDIS participants, and private patients.
Because we deliver care in your home, we can see how you move in your everyday environment and tailor treatment to your actual routines, goals and challenges.
We take a hands-on, personalised approach to care. Our physiotherapists work closely with you to improve strength, balance, and mobility, and to adapt your treatment plan as your needs change over time.
We support older Australians, NDIS participants and privately funded clients, with therapy delivered right where it matters most, at home.
If you or someone you care for is living with multiple sclerosis, our team is here to help. Contact us to learn how in-home physiotherapy may support mobility, independence and confidence in daily life.
Disclaimer:
All information is general and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Valens Care can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.
References:
- Health Direct. Multiple sclerosis (MS). https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/multiple-sclerosis-ms , [Accessed 11 March 2026]
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Multiple Sclerosis (MS). https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/multiple-sclerosis-ms, [Accessed 11 March 2026]
- Cleveland Clinic. Multiple Sclerosis (MS). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17248-multiple-sclerosis, [Accessed 11 March 2026]
- National Library of Medicine. Latimer-Cheung AE et al. Effects of exercise training on fitness, mobility, fatigue and health-related quality of life in adults with multiple sclerosis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32452269/ , [Accessed 11 March 2026]
