The Importance of Social Connection
Advice by Jelena KecmanovicI recently asked one of my patients if there was anyone he could call if he needed help, and he answered. “There’s nobody.”His experience is not uncommon. As [...]
The No BS Guide to Drinking with an Autoimmune Disease
Even in (short-lived) stretches of sobriety, I still wake up feeling hungover. With fingers swollen like vienna sausages, brain fog so severe I’m confused about what country I’m in, [...]
MS Art Therapy
The creation of art has been a healing technique for millennia, evidence of which can be found in many cultures and traditions all over the world. But only recently, [...]
The No BS Guide to Drinking with an Autoimmune Disease
Oh, I get that, too.” Those of us with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other chronic conditions are more used to hearing that reply than we care to be. Particularly [...]
Is It Time for an MS Drill?
Fact-Checked having an emergency plan in place for MS Getting help and helpers organized before you have an MS emergency will make a big difference when an urgent situation [...]
Side Effects of MS Steroid Treatment
When a person with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) has an acute symptom flare-up, they are often prescribed a short course of high-dose steroids, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis [...]
Numb Feet: Is It Multiple Sclerosis? Or Something Else?
Don’t assume that MS is always the cause of numb or tingling feet. While multiple sclerosis is a common cause, other conditions can affect the feet, too. Numbness of [...]
Can Turmeric Help Manage Multiple Sclerosis?
Variety may be the spice of life, but is turmeric the spice for people with multiple sclerosis (MS)? More and more people with MS are using complementary and alternative [...]
Christina Applegate and MS: The Early Warning Signs She Says She Missed
Actor Christina Applegate said she missed early symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) such as balance a few years ago. Experts say it can be difficult to diagnose MS from [...]
What to Know About Multiple Sclerosis Progression in Chart Form
Over the past few decades, the quality of life and life expectancy for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) has improved significantly. MS is a neurological condition that affects nearly [...]
National Coverage Determination (NCD) for Power Seat Elevation.
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation along with other disability policy organizations has long advocated for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to update the existing National [...]
Does Multiple Sclerosis Cause Neck Pain and Stiffness?
Cramping, pain, and fatigue can all come with MS, but certain types of neck pain can help doctors zero in on a diagnosis. Problems with balance and mobility, fatigue, [...]
MS Prognosis: Multiple Sclerosis Life Expectancy
It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but when you get a diagnosis like multiple sclerosis (MS), almost everyone starts to worry — “How long will I live? [...]
Sophie is having an Art Exhibition
Our very own Art with Sophie is having an Art Exhibition (from 2/3-2/28) with an Opening on February 3, from 12 - 10pm (Reception with DJ 5:30 - 9pm) at: Fruition [...]
“Let’s Talk “ADA Town Hall – Participate Thursday, Jan 26, at 10 am or 6:30 pm
"Let's Talk "ADA Town Hall - Participate Thursday, Jan 26, at 10 am or 6:30 pmThe City of Monterey is committed to providing all individuals equal opportunities to services and [...]
Why Does MS Cause Brain Lesions? What You Need to Know
What are brain lesions? Nerve fibers in your brain and spinal cord are wrapped in a protective membrane known as the myelin sheath. This coating helps increase the speed [...]
Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine on Thursday, 1/19 at 1:00pm
Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine on Thursday, January 19th @ 1pm, on Zoom. Let’s start the New Year with “How do I?” We’ll consider some of the [...]
New MS Webcast Series: We’ll Start With Sex
I’m excited to say that I’ve been asked by the MS Society of Ireland (MS Ireland) to host a web series we’re calling The Unspeakable Bits, as we’ve decided [...]
Tried-and-True Diet Tips That People With MS Swear By
Best of Tippi: These MSers have figured out how to make healthy eating a part of their MS management plan. Here are their top food tips, plus kitchen hacks [...]
When MS Attacks the Spinal Cord
Spinal cord lesions are more commonly seen in progressive forms of multiple sclerosis, and they can result in an increased risk of disability. Nearly everyone with multiple sclerosis (MS) [...]
Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine this Thursday, 11/17 at 1:00pm
LET’S TALK ABOUT GRATITUDE … CONVERSATIONS WITH BETTE & CHRISTINENovember is a month that reminds us of the importance of pausing to say, "Thank You!"The physical, mental, emotional, and social [...]
7 Ways to Fight MS Fatigue With Your Fork
Fatigue caused by multiple sclerosis (MS) is among the most common symptoms of the disease, and one that can take a serious toll on work and home life. The [...]
Massage Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis
Massage therapy is a well-established treatment for promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension. Among its lesser-known benefits, however, massage therapy can help alleviate symptoms for people living with multiple [...]
Unraveling the Link Between Multiple Sclerosis and Migraine
A high proportion of people with MS have migraine, but doctors don’t know why this is the case. Migraine is one of the most common chronic diseases in the [...]
Why Does MS Cause Brain Lesions? What You Need to Know
What are brain lesions? Nerve fibers in your brain and spinal cord are wrapped in a protective membrane known as the myelin sheath. This coating helps increase the speed [...]
MS and Heat: What You Need To Know
Many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are sensitive to heat and changes in body temperature. For a person with MS, even a quarter- or half-degree change in core body [...]
MS Relapse Rates Drop to Zero Following Stem Cell Transplants — But ‘Risks Are Real,’ Study Says
MS Relapse Rates Drop to Zero Following Stem Cell Transplants — But ‘Risks Are Real,’ Study Says People with multiple sclerosis (MS) who undergo hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) [...]
16 Conditions Commonly Mistaken for Multiple Sclerosis
Getting a correct diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) can be a challenge. In fact, a study published in May 2019 in the journal Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders suggested [...]
All About Purpose: What It Means and Why It’s So Good for You
Psychologists say a sense of purpose can mean specific life goals or just a feeling of motivation to go about your daily to-dos.Kate Ellis, a former English professor who taught [...]
How to Manage Numbness, Tingling, and Other Sensory Symptoms of MS
By Chris Iliades, MD Medically Reviewed by Samuel Mackenzie, MD, PhD Sensory symptoms are among the most common symptoms of MS. Find out what triggers them and what can [...]
Why MS Can Affect Your Breathing — and What You Can Do About It
By Madeline R. Vann, MPH Medically Reviewed by Jason Paul Chua, MD, PhD Multiple sclerosis can negatively affect multiple processes that control or modulate breathing. Here’s what you can [...]
MS: How to Recover From COVID-19 at Home
Here’s how to treat mild or moderate COVID-19 and alleviate symptoms, with help from over-the-counter medications, nondrug strategies, antiviral pills, remdesivir, or monoclonal antibodies. By Becky Upham If you [...]
MS: How to Be Your Own Health Advocate
If you have MS, it’s important to take control of your health and have a backup plan for when you’re unable to advocate for yourself. Here’s how to do [...]
4 Myths About Multiple Sclerosis and Diet
Many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) may wonder whether trying a certain diet — or eliminating a certain food group from their diet — can ward off MS symptoms [...]
MS and Alcohol: What Are the Effects?
If you're living with multiple sclerosis (MS), you may wonder how moderate or heavy alcohol consumption could affect your disease and overall well-being. As one MyMSTeam member said, “I [...]
Flushed Face and MS
Flushing of the face — reddened, warm skin — can sometimes occur as one of the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), as a side effect of MS treatment, or [...]
What If You Get COVID-19 While Traveling?
Taking a trip? You need to plan for the possibility that you might get COVID-19 while you’re far from home. Here are a few strategies to consider. Planning a [...]
MS Monterey: Let’s Talk About Healthy Choices ~ Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine
LET’S TALK ABOUT HEALTHY CHOICES … CONVERSATIONS WITH BETTE & CHRISTINE Join us on Thursday, July 21st @ 1-2pm (a no-cost zoom gathering) We’ll be discussing some of the [...]
Biotin for Progressive MS: Does It Work?
As a complement to medical treatment, some people with multiple sclerosis (MS) turn to lifestyle changes like diet, vitamins, and supplements such as biotin to help manage their symptoms. [...]
Can You Drive With Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects your brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. It occurs when your immune system attacks a fatty substance around your nerves [...]
Managing Vertigo When You Have MS
Feel like the room is spinning while you're standing still? Dizziness and vertigo affect many people with multiple sclerosis, but there are strategies that can help. There are days [...]
Switching MS Treatments: When and Why It Might Be Time To Switch
Effective treatment of multiple sclerosis involves disease-modifying therapies. DMTs are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) based on their proven ability to slow disease processes in [...]
MS Monterey: Let’s talk about depression!
PRESENTING ~June 16, 2022: This month we'll be talking with Bruce Southwick, whom many of you know and love! We're going to talk about MS, PD and depression. How to [...]
Webinar: The Power of Detoxification for Multiple Sclerosis
Join this LIVE webinar to learn the SECRETS to do detox! You will learn: Why detoxification is crucial for multiple sclerosis How the body removes toxins [...]
Muscle Spasms in MS: What Do They Feel Like?
Muscle spasms (also called cramps or fasciculations) are a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS). Spasticity, which causes muscle stiffness and tightness, affects about 20 percent of people with [...]
Curb Free with Cory Lee: SHARING THE WORLD FROM A WHEELCHAIR USER’S PERSPECTIVE
Welcome to my travel blog, Curb Free with Cory Lee. Here on the site, I hope to share my experiences as a disabled traveler with you and many tips [...]
10 Essential Facts About Primary-Progressive MS
With only one FDA-approved drug available for PPMS, this type of multiple sclerosis remains difficult to treat, but adaptive devices and wellness programs can help you manage your symptoms. [...]
MS Monterey: May is all about Community & Connection
MS Monterey rocks when it comes to “Community & Connection!” Look at what members are saying about MS Monterey. "The camaraderie, the ongoing shared concern for each other, the [...]
Multiple Sclerosis Exercises for Better Balance and Coordination
OverviewExercise and physical activity are important to your health and well-being. If you have multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition where the immune system attacks the protective sheath that covers nerve [...]
Three Diets Found To Have a Positive Impact on People With MS
When combined with exercise, diets such as Mediterranean, low-carb, and fasting-mimicking appear to have a positive impact on people with MS, a new study suggests. Scientists at Italy’s [...]
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Understanding Overheating
Uhthoff’s Phenomenon: Understanding Overheating Some people with multiple sclerosis (MS) feel their symptoms worsen when they become overheated. When elevated body temperature impairs vision, it’s called Uhthoff’s phenomenon. Uhthoff’s [...]
How MS Can Affect Your Oral Health
People who have MS are at higher risk of dental disease, but certain tools and techniques can help you take proper care of your teeth. Because multiple sclerosis (MS) [...]
A DAY IN THE LIFE ~ OF YOU! Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine (MS Monterey)
PRESENTING ~ "A Day in the Life of YOU" - as someone dealing with MS or PD on a daily basis. Let's learn from each other about the challenges [...]
Moderna Begins Testing Vaccine for Epstein-Barr — the Virus That May Be Behind MS
Biotechnology company Moderna Therapeutics has launched the first phase of a clinical trial to evaluate its vaccine for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), dosing the first study participant on Jan. 5. [...]
MS and Bladder Issues
Bladder issues such as frequent urination, incontinence, bladder urgency, or urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect up to 90 percent of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Urinary problems and [...]
Treating Chronic Pain in Multiple Sclerosis
Although chronic pain is very common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), it’s often underrecognized as an important aspect of the disease that needs attention — and treatment. “At [...]
SLEEP, PART 3! Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine (MS Monterey)
Presenting the final part of the three-part series on getting a good night's sleep for you or someone you love.Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine on Thursday, March 17th [...]
Nonapproved Treatments Used for Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune condition that leads to lesions on the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), causing symptoms related to movement, vision, and speech. [...]
Join the Conversation: MS and Sleep with Dr. Susan Payrovi, Stanford’s Center for Integrative Medicine
Trouble sleeping? It is a common problem for those of us who deal with MS or PD. Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine on Thursday, February 17th from [...]
MS Disability Benefits: How To Apply and More
When people in the U.S. living with MS can no longer work, many seek Social Security disability benefits. Disability benefits help replace lost income when people with MS leave [...]
Cannabis Can Ease Chronic Inflammation, But We’re Only Now Understanding Why
Synchronicity Holistic, Cannabis Store in Carmel California Exploring the relationship between inflammation and the endocannabinoid system. This story originally appeared on Cannabis.net Regardless of how anyone feels [...]
Epstein-Barr Could Be the ‘Leading Cause’ of MS — A Discovery That May Lead to a Cure
A new study of more than 10 million people found that the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) rose by 32 times following infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). [...]
MS Spasticity: Causes and Treatments
Spasticity is one of the most common — and challenging — symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, an estimated 80 percent of people [...]
The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Your Body
Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D.O. — Written by Stephanie Watson and Kristeen Cherney — Updated on December 15, 2021 If you’ve ever spent a night tossing and turning, you already know how you’ll feel the next [...]
SLEEP! Join the Conversation with Bette & Christine (MS Monterey)
Is getting a good night's sleep an issue for you or someone you love? It is a common problem for those of us who deal with MS or PD. [...]
10 Ways to Preserve Your Brain Health if You Have MS
From getting enough sleep to doing brain exercises, there are steps you can take to preserve and possibly improve your cognitive health. By Quinn Phillips Medically Reviewed by Samuel [...]
Neurologist Sees Promising Treatments on Horizon for People With Progressive MS
Article written by Don Rauf Key Takeaways from the Article Dr. Robert Fox, a neurologist, discussed current research into progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) at 2021 Consortium of [...]
How to Start a Self-Care Routine You’ll Follow
By Moira Lawler You may have read about self-care and you may be on board with the benefits it can offer — even if it requires some extra effort [...]
Multiple Sclerosis and Suicide
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, help is out there. Reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. My daily affirmation when I head [...]
Tried-and-True Diet Tips That People With MS Swear By
Let’s face it — following a healthy diet is important to your overall wellness. And many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) say that making the right food choices helps [...]
Mood Changes and Multiple Sclerosis
Everyone experiences mood swings or “moodiness” from time to time. But some people experience rapid, uncontrollable changes as one of the emotional symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). You may [...]
The Best Tips for MS, According to Millennials
BEST OF TIPPI: Here’s what Gen Y has to say about life with MS. Fatigue, brain fog, weakness, trouble balancing … these might not sound like health concerns of [...]
Are We Close to a Cure for MS? An Update From Dr. Aaron Boster
Will we ever see a cure for multiple sclerosis (MS)? That’s one of the most frequently asked questions — and topics of conversation — among people living with this [...]
Selma Blair Announces She’s in Remission From MS Following Stem Cell Transplant
Actress Selma Blair has revealed that her multiple sclerosis (MS) is now in remission following treatment with a stem cell transplant. Blair, who was first diagnosed with MS in 2018, [...]
COVID-19 Booster Shots Are Coming
COVID-19 vaccine boosters are due to roll out in late September — and some immunocompromised people are eligible right now. Here’s what you need to know before you get [...]
Hydrotherapy & Aquatic Exercise
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND POOL CLASS THERAPY FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS Aquatic exercises, which some people may refer to as pool exercise or water therapy, are a type of aerobic hydrotherapy. [...]
MS Gym in Your Own Home
Hi my name is Trevor Wicken. I am the proud owner of The MS Gym, the largest and most comprehensive platform for movement and mindset training for those living [...]
Healthy Eating Habits for Multiple Sclerosis
A healthy diet for someone with MS is not all that different from food recommendations for anyone else. By Shira Isenberg, RD, MPH Reviewed: August 27, 2021 Finding reliable [...]
Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) Treatments Explained
As of June 2021, there were 20 different disease-modifying therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating multiple sclerosis (MS). Each DMT has been proven [...]
Healthy Eating and MS
Adopting a healthy diet with multiple sclerosis is an important part of an overall MS wellness plan. Adopting a healthy diet with multiple sclerosis (MS) is an important part [...]
8 Steps to Better Walking With MS
Mobility problems are common among people with multiple sclerosis, but there’s a lot you can do to stay on your feet. Eighty percent of people who have multiple sclerosis [...]
Study finds Wahls and Swank diets both reduce fatigue
In a recent study, researchers set out to compare the effect of the modified paleolithic elimination, or Wahls, and low-saturated fat, or Swank, diets in relapsing-remitting MS. Both diets were [...]
MS Monterey ~ Art With Sophie
This group provides a space for members to express themselves creatively using a variety of art media. Sophie views herself as a fellow creative explorer and facilitates the artmaking [...]
21st Century Scientific, Inc. presenting a demonstration of their wheelchairs.
MS Monterey and Kelly Carter, Sales Associate, from 21st Century Scientific, Inc. presenting a demonstration of their wheelchairs. We’re meeting on Wednesday, 7/28 at 10:30am in the rear parking [...]
MS and Sleep: Strategies for Battling Sleep Disturbances
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) often need strategies for battling sleep disturbances. More than half of people with multiple sclerosis experience a sleep disorder, such as insomnia, sleep-disordered breathing [...]
A ‘cool’ product guide The tools and products you need to stay active.
by Vicky UhlandThe body has numerous points that act as heat conductors, so it doesn’t matter which one you choose to cool, as long as it works for you, says [...]
Chronic disease patients deserve the same access to health care as anyone else.
TOGETHER WE CAN PROTECT PATIENT RIGHTS Chronic disease patients deserve the same access to health care as anyone else. WE FIGHT DISCRIMINATION Thousands of individuals, families, health care providers [...]
From Running to Walking to Rolling, MS Is a Lifetime of Adaptations
By Mona Sen For My Health Story Like so many others with MS, I’ve done what I needed to do to stay mobile over the years. Now I know [...]
10 Best Exercises to Boost Wellness When You Have Multiple Sclerosis
Exercise has been linked to a reduced relapse rate, slower disease progression, and reduced fatigue, among other benefits. Learn the top exercises for MS and how they improve strength, coordination, [...]
Hydrotherapy Resources
READY TO GET BACK IN THE POOL? CHECK THESE RESOURCES ... Open Swim: Multiple Sclerosis Water Therapy Medically reviewed by George Krucik, MD, MBA — Written by Ann Pietrangelo [...]
Hydrotherapy: Water-based benefits for multiple sclerosis
SOURCE: MedicalNewsToday.com Hydrotherapy is the therapeutic use of water, and one type involves exercises in a swimming pool. The unique properties of water mean that the activity can be [...]
9-Medical myths: All about multiple sclerosis
To date, it is unclear why some people develop MS and others do not, but environmental and genetic factors may play a role. Because it is not entirely clear why [...]
9 Surprising Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
Many people with MS experience fatigue and mobility issues, but there are other, less common symptoms.When you have multiple sclerosis (MS), damage to the nerve fibers in the central nervous [...]
Guide to Shared Decision Making in MS
Photo from My MS Team What Is Shared Decision Making? Shared decision making helps to ensure that people with MS are active participants in their own treatment decisions. [...]
Helping Californians get the health care they need
The Health Consumer Alliance (HCA) offers free assistance over-the-phone or in-person to help people who are struggling to get or maintain health coverage and resolve problems with their health [...]
MS & Cannabis
MS Monterey with Bette & Christine Join us on Zoom for an hour of sharing, learning and laughter! Come for yourself. But also come to support others who live [...]
Everyday Health: Managing Spasticity: stretching, Medication, CBD
Managing Spasticity: stretching, Medication, CBD Published by Everyday Health A number of steps can be taken to address spasticity and limit its debilitating effects. In fact, the NMSS notes [...]
CBD Oil for MS: Is It Effective?
CBD Oil for MS: Is It Effective? (article source: https://www.mymsteam.com/resources/cbd-oil-for-ms-is-it-effective) Cannabidiol (CBD) has become a popular ingredient in many health and wellness products to help reduce pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders. [...]
Introducing, Selma Blair’ Director on Documenting the Actress’ Multiple Sclerosis
SXSW: 'Introducing, Selma Blair' Director on Documenting the Actress' Multiple Sclerosis 3/17/2021 by Mia Galupp (PRINT THE ARTICLE - PDF) “In October 2018, actress Selma Blair revealed on Instagram that she [...]
Transportation Services for People With Disabilities
ADA Paratransit (RIDES) MST RIDES ADA PARATRANSIT PROGRAM Transportation Services for People With Disabilities In cooperation with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, Monterey-Salinas Transit offers the [...]