“Early treatment at the time of diagnosis is key to successful MS care.” June Halper, MSN, APN-C, MSCN, FAAN CEO of the Consortium of MS Centers “Fatigue, pain, sexual dysfunction, and cognitive problems can be related to MS and you should tell your doctor if you experience these symptoms.” Aaron Carlson, M.D. Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, University of Florida “I believe that many don’t realize that changes in mental function and thinking are not unmentionable things. As an MS nurse, it’s something we can discuss, investigate, and often treat. Cognitive rehabilitation and therapy can go a long way to improve function and quality of life. People with MS and their loved ones should share such concernswith us, sowe canwork togethertoward improvement.” Dottie Cassidy Pfohl, RN, BSN, MSCN Clinical Coordinator of the Comprehensive MS Center, University of Pennsylvania Health System “PT is not something that happens to you, butacollaborationbetweenyouandthephysical therapist. Before beginning PT, carefully consider your movement goals – what would you like to be able to physically accomplish after finishing PT that you are having trouble doing right now? Bring your goals, hard work, and healthy dose of humor to each session. Learn to work in partnership with your PT as you explore how to move more effectively and efficiently.” Anneke Bender, PT, MSCS Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute at Shepherd Behavior “Before you begin initiating behavior changes, it pays off to set long- and short-term goals. These can help to keep you motivated. Also, know that you are not going to be perfect and that missing a day, or making a less ideal food choice is going to happen. Health and wellness is a journey!” Anna Berry, PT, DPT Program manager at the Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute at Shepherd “One of the struggles with MS is that it imposes changes in lives and routines. Contrary to what folks with MS may fear, the best changes are not the radical ones, but the small ones. Over time, those small changes grow and support the adjustments necessary for folks to thrive in spite of their MS.” Rob Godsall, Ph.D. Clinical Neuropsychologist at Shepherd Center 9 msfocusmagazine.org Treating MS and its Symptoms