Therapies

About MS

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system, which is often progressive. At present it remains incurable. Evidence and progress of the disease is very varied, some people with MS lead relatively normal lives with occasional acute episodes; at the other extreme, constant pain, loss of faculties and rapid progression via stages of disability.

Varying progression rates mean that our members have differing degrees of mobility and many are wheelchair users. The progress of the disease frequently leads to severely reduced independence and employment prospects, with consequent financial hardship and/or personal or relationship problems.

Newly Diagnosed?

The MS Society provides an excellent resource of information for the newly diagnosed at www.mssociety.org.uk

The Wessex MS Therapy Centre is not part of this organisation but works in partnership with them to provide help and support for people with MS

What we offer

The Wessex therapy centre strives to cater for as many members as possible. We currently offer the following:

Physiotherapy - there is a large well equipped gymnasium, used primarily for physiotherapy. Its state of the art equipment includes just about everything: high-tech standing frame, motor assisted pedals, a tilt table, a treadmill, parallel bars, arm pulleys, multi-gym equipment, wobble boards, physio balls and a Vibrogym.

Reflexology - Bev, our wonderful reflexologist, is always in demand because she offers a very personal touch to our members who feel the benefit of Bev's warm exploring hands.

Oxygen Therapy - We have two chambers that are operated on a daily basis at varying times of the day. Oxygen therapy is believed to help repair any tissue injury which is vital in the transport of oxygen around the body.

Counselling - counselling is available where members can discuss any emotional issues in a safe and confidential environment.

Yoga - We offer gentle yoga once a week in order to maintain energy flow with minimal physical effort.

Pilates - We also offer Pilates once a week which some members find preferable to yoga.

We are currently researching the possibility of inviting a chiropodist and a Specialist MS Nurse to hold surgeries in the centre. We are always very grateful for any suggestions of how to improve our facilities from our members.