Multiple Sclerosis Specialist

Multiple sclerosis may appear at any age, but it usually begins between the ages of 20-40. The board-certified physicians at Complete Neurological Care specialize in treating multiple sclerosis, focusing on helping you maintain optimal mobility and function. To schedule an appointment, book online or call the nearest office today. There are five locations in New York City — Forest Hills and in Queens, and the Financial District, Midtown, and neighborhoods in Manhattan — as well as offices in Valley Stream and Hicksville, New York.

What causes multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that causes the loss of muscle control. MS slowly develops as your immune system attacks nerves in your brain and spinal cord.

The immune attack damages the myelin sheath, a thin protective cover around each nerve. As the sheath breaks down, the affected nerves lose the ability to transmit signals from your brain to your muscles. As a result, you lose muscle control and mobility.

What symptoms develop due to multiple sclerosis?

The symptoms you experience depend on the affected nerves and the extent of the damage. Many patients experience the first signs of multiple sclerosis in their eyes. However, you may develop any of the following symptoms:

• Double vision
• Blurry vision
• Pain during eye movement
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness
• Dizziness
• Chronic fatigue
• Difficulty speaking
• Lack of coordination
• Unsteady gait (difficulty walking)

You may also experience tingling or pain in specific body areas.

How is multiple sclerosis diagnosed?

Complete Neurological Care often performs an evoked potential test to diagnose multiple sclerosis. This test shows how your nerves respond to stimulation. In some cases, you may need a blood test to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms or an MRI to identify damaged areas (lesions) on nerves in the brain.

How is multiple sclerosis treated?

Treatment for multiple sclerosis focuses on managing your symptoms, slowing down the progressive damage, and improving your ability to move. To accomplish these goals, your provider creates a treatment plan that combines several treatments, such as oral medications, injections, and physical therapy. 

Many disease-modifying medications are available that may reduce the severity and frequency of relapses, block the immune system from attacking nerves, and slow down the rate of nerve damage.

Muscle relaxants ease the pain caused by muscle stiffness or spasms. Your provider may prescribe other medications that target problems associated with multiple sclerosis, such as depression, pain, insomnia, and bladder or bowel incontinence.

Physical therapy, rehabilitation, and occupational therapy help you maintain mobility and function. Complete Neurological Care helps you find the treatment you need to support all the challenges of multiple sclerosis.

If you need exceptional treatment for multiple sclerosis, call Complete Neurological Care, or schedule an appointment online today.