MS Specialist Physiotherapists

An MS Specialist Physiotherapist (Physio) is a senior physiotherapist who has experience working with people with MS. Physiotherapy involves a holistic approach, focusing on the individual as a whole, and aims to help you resume, or maintain, an active and independent life through activity and exercise.

MS Physiotherapy can be beneficial if you have MS symptoms such as spasticity, weakness, or balance difficulties. An MS Specialist Physio is also trained to work with other symptoms of MS, such as fatigue and nerve pain.

What to expect from your MS Specialist Physio

In Dorset, the MS Physios provide specialist outpatient clinics, with a physical assessment, to enable them to advise you on how to manage your MS symptoms. This often includes advice on exercises, balance training, spasticity management and walking aids. If the MS Physio feels that you require ongoing therapy, then they will refer you to a local physiotherapy service. You may also be referred to other health care services to help you with symptoms.

Where will I see the MS Specialist Physio

Your initial appointment will usually be face to face in an MS physiotherapy clinic. The team currently provides face to face clinics in Poole, Christchurch, Blandford, and Weymouth. Follow up appointments are usually conducted by video or telephone. In some cases, where people are unable to attend an outpatient clinic, a home visit may be offered (specific criteria apply).

What can I do before my appointment?

Before you attend your MS Physio appointment, it would be useful to consider what you would like to achieve from your session, or if you have any goals.

You are welcome to bring somebody to support you in the appointment.

If you have any orthotic/splint devices that you wear, or walking aids that you use, it can be useful to bring them.

It is also recommended that you wear clothes that are easy to move in, such as t-shirt, loose trousers or shorts.

Please see Appointments and clinics section for more details.