Today we’re focusing on movement, function and independence, and the specialist physiotherapy support that can help people living with multiple sclerosis continue doing what matters to them.

Host Jeremy Henderson and Associate Professor James McLoughlin trace James’ path into MS care, explain what neurological physiotherapy can offer throughout the MS journey, and share practical guidance on finding support. When should physiotherapy enter the care pathway after diagnosis, and why can early assessment help before significant mobility problems appear?

James explains how exercise shifted from being discouraged to recognised as beneficial, distinguishes physiotherapy—including neurological physiotherapy—from exercise physiology and occupational therapy, and shows where they intersect. He also discusses MS nurses, continuity of care, ageing with MS, long-term brain health, MS services, the NDIS, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) since the mid-1990s, and future technologies including robotics.

MS symptoms mentioned which may benefit from physiotherapy, including neurological physiotherapy, include gait, walking and mobility changes, balance problems, reduced strength, coordination, cognitive changes, fatigue, motor and cognitive fatigue, pain, spasticity, ataxia and bladder problems.

Our Member Organisations provide practical physiotherapy support around Australia:

• MS Plus offers specialised physiotherapy in Victoria and New South Wales as well as via telehealth in Tasmania and the ACT. Its physiotherapists support symptom management, mobility, strength, balance and independence, and work collaboratively with exercise physiologists.
• MSWA provides neurological, respiratory and continence physiotherapy across Western Australia through service centres, home visits, community settings and telehealth. Support can include individual programs, gait rehabilitation, hydrotherapy, falls prevention, fatigue management and assistive technology.
• Led by MSWA, MS Society SA & NT physiotherapists work with people living with MS to improve physical function, mobility and quality of life. Services are available at the Kilkenny Services Centre and via telehealth in South Australia and the Northern Territory.
• MSWA also offers vestibular and lymphoedema physiotherapy across both Western and South Australia.
• MS Queensland provides neurological physiotherapy through Neuro Wellness Hubs, home visits and telehealth, including early intervention, symptom management, personalised exercise programs and NDIS access reports.

Also check out MS Australia’s Living Well with MS guide, informed by the latest research and real-life experience.