Multiple sclerosis (MS) can be a bit of a balance beam—if not an obstacle course—on any given day. Some days, you’re managing just fine, but other days, every step feels like a marathon. Here’s the thing: though MS can be unpredictable, there are ways to make life a little easier and even more pleasant. From tweaking your daily routine to trying alternative therapies to leaning on a support network, you have choices.
Let’s review real-life tips that can help you not just to cope but to flourish despite living with MS.
Table of Contents
1. Rest Smart, Not Just More
Ever feel like you’re running on empty, even after a full night’s sleep? MS-related fatigue is real, and it’s different from just being “tired.” Instead of simply focusing on how much you’re sleeping—though that’s important too—think about how you rest. Try breaking up your day into small, intentional breaks. Pacing yourself can be a lifesaver, especially on tougher days. Make rest a part of your routine, not just a fallback when you’re wiped out.
2. Keep Moving, but Gently
Exercising with MS is a careful balance. You want to keep your muscles moving without overexertion. The good news? Many low-impact exercises can help you remain limber and reduce stiffness. Think swimming, yoga, or even a bit of stretching. If you’re up for it, try taking a gentle walk around the neighborhood. Just a reminder: you don’t have to break a sweat every day. The goal is to move a little each day without overdoing it.
3. Feed Your Body the Good Stuff
Eating well isn’t just for gym rats; it’s also vitally important in managing MS. Some research suggests that an anti-inflammatory diet may help with MS symptoms. What does that look like? Leafy greens, berries, nuts, and omega-3-rich foods like salmon and chia seeds. Try to avoid processed foods, which tend to be filled with pro-inflammatory ingredients such as added sugars and artificial preservatives. Your diet doesn’t have to be perfect; even small changes can make a huge difference.
4. Find a Community That Gets It
MS can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Sometimes, all it takes to turn things around is talking with people who understand. Support groups, either in person or online, allow people to share experiences and coping strategies. It’s comforting to know you’re not alone, and you may even learn something helpful along the way.
5. Pain Management with a Combination of Interventions
MS pain doesn’t fit into one mold—whether it’s muscle spasms or nerve pain, everyone experiences it differently. Consider physical therapy, massage, or even acupuncture if that appeals to you. There are medications available too; talk to your doctor about what might work best for you. Pain management is often most effective when you combine a few methods to create a routine that’s just right for you.
6. Consider Alternative Therapies (Including Medical Marijuana)
Living with MS is about finding what works for you, which might mean exploring beyond conventional treatments. Medical marijuana, for example, has been effective for some people with MS, especially in managing chronic pain and muscle spasms. In places like Washington state, where marijuana is fully legal, people have the flexibility to try it without needing a medical prescription. But here’s the catch: even in a state where recreational use is allowed, getting a medical marijuana card can still offer benefits.
For instance, it might grant access to specific products or higher-strength options not available to recreational customers. Plus, some dispensaries have medical-only sections where knowledgeable staff can provide advice tailored to medical needs.
If you’re wondering how to get a medical marijuana card in Washington, it’s a straightforward process, usually involving a conversation with a healthcare provider who can determine if it’s the right choice for you.
7. Use a Mobility Aid if You Need It
There’s no shame in leaning on a little extra support. For mobility aids, think canes, braces, or even scooters—they’re tools that help you stay active and independent. They don’t indicate weakness but rather enable you to move through your day in a way that suits you best. Don’t wait until you’re completely exhausted to consider using them. Instead, think of them as part of your “energy budget,” letting you save energy for the things that matter.
8. Give Your Mind the Care It Needs
MS doesn’t just affect your body; it can wear on your mind too. The physical challenges, along with the unpredictability, can lead to anxiety or depression. So why not give mental health the attention it deserves? Talking with a counselor or therapist can be incredibly helpful, whether you’re processing frustrations related to MS or just need a safe space to vent. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or journaling, can also help you stay calm and grounded, no matter how unpredictable life gets.
9. Develop a Symptom-Management Routine You Can Depend On
Managing MS symptoms often requires organization. Develop a routine to stay on schedule with things like medication, doctor appointments, and physical therapy exercises. A simple daily checklist or an app can make it easier to keep everything in order without feeling overwhelmed. The idea is to get ahead of your symptoms, so they don’t catch you off guard. Plus, having a routine can give you a sense of control, which is empowering.
10. Lean on Your Healthcare Team
Living with MS often means you’re seeing more than just a family doctor. Your “team” might include a neurologist, physical therapist, nutritionist, and even a psychologist. Embrace it! Each specialist brings a unique perspective and skill set to help you holistically manage MS. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them when you have questions or need support. They’re there to help you live your best life with MS.
Conclusion
Living with MS is a journey—sometimes challenging, often unpredictable, but certainly manageable. With the right tools and a few supportive voices in your corner, you can build a life that’s not defined by MS but enhanced by how you choose to manage it.
