Rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis.

Despite the lack of a definitive remedy for central nervous system demyelination in multiple sclerosis, certain manifestations of the disease are treatable. Recognition and identification of specific impairments, disabilities, and handicaps faced by the patient afford the physician the best opportunity to provide effective intervention. Impairments are ameliorated with difficulty; however, when comprehensive methods of rehabilitation are applied to the associated disabilities and handicaps, meaningful improvements can be achieved. The goal of rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis is to maximize the patient's physical, emotional, social, and vocational independence. Through the multidisciplinary efforts of numerous health-care workers in close cooperation with the patient and the family, this goal can be attained.