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Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, pregressive, demyelinating, disease of the central nervous system. It is named for the formation of disseminated scarlike lesions primarily in the central white mattrer of the brain and spinal cord. These plaques are commonly found in the regions of the optic tracts, third and fourth ventricles, basal ganglia, midbrain, pons, and spinal cord. Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease, typically presenting with an exacerbating-remitting course, although other clinical courses have been recognized. Common clinical findings include disturbances in sensation, muscle strength, tone, fatigue, coordination, vision, communication, bladder and bowel function, and cognitive and behavioral function. Physical therapy of the patient with multiple sclerosis is centered around decreasing symptoms, improving function, prevention secondary complications, and promoting successful psychological adjustment. It requires the comprehensive efforts of a health care team to provide coordinated and continuing care.
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