Occupational Therapy Helps People With Multiple Sclerosis

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can make everyday tasks more challenging—but you don’t have to face those challenges alone. Occupational therapy (OT) empowers people with MS to perform daily activities with greater ease, independence, and satisfaction. Whether it’s getting dressed, preparing a meal, or returning to work, occupational therapists help you find ways to stay active, capable, and engaged in life.

What Everyday Activities Can OT Help With?

Occupational therapy addresses a wide range of daily activities that may be affected by MS symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, spasticity, pain, visual impairments, or memory issues. These include:

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

• Helping you maintain the mobility and stamina to:
• Use the toilet, shower, or bathe independently
• Groom yourself using a toothbrush, razor, hairbrush, or makeup tools
• Feed yourself using utensils with greater control and comfort
• Access clothing in drawers and closets and dress with ease

Home Management Tasks

• Assisting with the physical and cognitive demands of:
• Planning meals and using kitchen tools safely and efficiently
• Making shopping lists, grocery shopping, and organizing supplies
• Cleaning, doing laundry, and maintaining a safe and functional home

Work-Related Tasks - Enabling you to:

• Access your workplace safely and efficiently
• Use work equipment and complete job responsibilities with confidence

Transportation - Helping you:

• Drive safely or navigate public transportation options

Leisure Activities - Supporting your participation in:

• Hobbies, sports, and other fun or relaxing activities you enjoy

How Can Occupational Therapy Help Me?

Fatigue is one of the most common and debilitating symptoms of MS. When combined with other issues like weakness, pain, or cognitive changes, it can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. An occupational therapist will complete a comprehensive evaluation to identify the barriers you're facing and work with you to create a customized treatment plan.

Your OT plan may include:

• Customized Upper Body Training:  Exercises to improve arm, hand, and upper body strength, coordination, and mobility.
• Fatigue Management Strategies:  Learn how to pace yourself, prioritize tasks, and conserve energy throughout the day.
• Adaptive Equipment and Techniques:  Find tools and methods that make self-care, chores, work, and play easier and more enjoyable.
• Time Management and Organization Skills:  Discover strategies to help you remember appointments, manage your schedule, and keep your space organized.
• Home and Workplace Modifications:  Recommendations for rearranging your environment, using assistive technology, or incorporating rest breaks to improve efficiency and safety.

Occupational Therapy at Therapy Achievements

At Therapy Achievements, our occupational therapists have extensive experience working with people with MS. We understand the unique challenges you face and are committed to helping you regain control over your life.

Don’t struggle alone. Let our compassionate and knowledgeable team help you discover the tools and strategies that support your independence and well-being—so you can focus on the work of living!