Could identifying the early signs of MS be the first step toward reclaiming your strength and well-being?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a condition that can feel overwhelming, especially if you're just noticing early symptoms or have recently been diagnosed. The good news is that recognizing the signs of MS early on can make a huge difference in managing the condition. With the right information, you can start taking steps toward improving your health and quality of life—early detection gives you a chance to maintain, and even regain, your strength.
As a physical therapist and MS specialist, I’ve seen firsthand how people’s lives can improve when they recognize their symptoms early. Let’s take a look at what MS is, what to watch for, and what you can do if you think MS might be a possibility in your life or a loved one’s.
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin, in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms.
The exact cause of MS isn’t fully understood, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetics and environmental factors. While anyone can develop MS, certain groups are more at risk, such as women (who are three times more likely to develop MS than men) and people between the ages of 20 and 40. Family history, certain infections, and geographic location (those living farther from the equator) may also increase risk.
The symptoms of MS can vary widely from person to person, and they often come and go. In the early stages, you might notice minor symptoms that shouldn't be ignored. Here are some of the most common early signs:
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of MS and can have a significant impact on daily life. This isn't just feeling tired after a long day—it’s an overwhelming exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest.
Many people with MS experience numbness or tingling in their limbs, especially in the arms, legs, or face. It can feel like pins and needles or a buzzing sensation and is often one of the first signs people notice. Typically, it’s on one side of the body.
MS can cause limb weakness, muscle stiffness, or spasms, making it harder to perform everyday tasks. It can have a sudden onset or slow progression. Sometimes, people experience sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can be painful or disruptive. Typically, it affects one side of the body more than the other.
Issues with balance, walking, or coordination are common in the early stages of MS. You might feel clumsy or unsteady on your feet, making it harder to move around.
Vision issues, such as blurred or double vision, can occur early on. Some people also experience pain when moving their eyes or notice that their vision seems dim or faded.
You may struggle with concentration, memory, or organization. These cognitive changes can be subtle but can also be frustrating and disruptive.
Some people with MS notice that their symptoms worsen in hot weather or after exercising. This is called Uhthoff’s phenomenon and can cause temporary worsening of symptoms like vision problems, difficulty walking, or fatigue.
In addition to the more common symptoms, there are also some less typical signs of MS that people might not immediately recognize as being related to the condition:
Some people with MS experience a sudden, electric shock-like sensation when they move their neck. This is known as Lhermitte’s sign and is often a sign of damage to the spinal cord.
Trigeminal neuralgia causes intense facial pain, which can be triggered by everyday activities like chewing, speaking, or even brushing your teeth. This pain is sharp and can come and go without warning.
MS can affect the nerves that control bladder and bowel function, leading to frequent urges to urinate, difficulty emptying the bladder, or constipation. These issues can be embarrassing, but they are treatable.
Nerve damage caused by MS can also interfere with sexual function, leading to reduced sensitivity, difficulty with arousal, or other issues in both men and women.
Because the symptoms of MS can overlap with those of other conditions, it’s important to differentiate MS from other disorders like fibromyalgia, lupus, or Lyme disease. While these conditions can share symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain, or cognitive changes, MS is unique in the way it affects the central nervous system, causing specific patterns of nerve damage that can be detected through imaging and other diagnostic tests.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that could be related to MS, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis is key to starting the right treatments and therapies to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
If you’re noticing some of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t panic—but don’t ignore them either. Since there are many other conditions that have similar symptoms, there may be a non-MS related cause for what you’re experiencing, such as a pinched nerve. However, if it is MS, MS is a condition that responds well to early treatment, and the earlier you take action, the more likely the better your long-term outcomes can be. Physical therapy (PT) is one of the most effective tools in managing MS, especially when started early.
At this stage, PT can help you maintain your strength and improve mobility. The goal is to preserve your independence, making sure you can continue to do the activities you love. Regular exercise, guided by a specialist, can also reduce fatigue, improve balance, and minimize muscle weakness.
To help get you started on your journey to understanding how MS and exercise work together, my FREE 5-Day MS Strength Challenge is the perfect introduction! Over 5 days, you’ll learn how to exercise effectively with MS, including how many reps and types of exercises to do. You’ll also get an MS-specific exercise class to follow at home, plus tips on how to fit exercises into your daily routine and stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re already experiencing symptoms, or even if you’ve just been diagnosed, remember that you’re not alone. MS can feel overwhelming, but with the right support and early intervention, you can manage your symptoms, maintain your strength, and live a full, active life.
Do you have any further questions on early signs of MS to look for? Please feel free to DM me on Instagram @doctor.gretchen.
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Have you ever felt unsteady or wondered if there’s a way to make walking easier on days when your body just doesn’t feel as strong? Trekking poles for MS can be the perfect solution! Check out how how these simple, adaptable poles can help make walking feel easier and more natural here.
Looking for the perfect gift to show someone you care while supporting their MS journey? Whether you’re treating yourself or giving loved ones some helpful ideas, here is a list of MS-approved gifts that add a little more ease and joy to your days. Trust me, there is something for everyone on here!
Dr. Gretchen Hawley's The MSing Link offers a comprehensive guide to taking control of your MS symptoms and improving your mobility through MS-specific exercises and strategies.
6000+ copies sold in over 13 countries!
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As a physical therapist & Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist, I have spent the last 10 years teaching people with MS how to feel more confident & empowered through MS-specific exercises and strategies.
If you want support and encouragement, plus a healthy dose of tough love, come follow me on Instagram (@doctor.gretchen) or on YouTube @DoctorGretchenHawley. It's where I share daily tips, tricks, and information about new offers — plus, you’re bound to feel more empowered, hopeful, & motivated after watching each post and video!
Questions? Email me at Hello@DoctorGretchenHawley.com