Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Coordinated Care at Our Multiple Sclerosis/Neuroimmunology Center

Living with multiple sclerosis can be overwhelming. Our team of physicians, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, neuropsychologists, and radiologists works with you every step of the way, from diagnosis to ongoing management.

To offer you the best mix of treatments, the MS Center draws on specialists from various fields of medicine:

What We Treat

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a long-term disease of the nervous system, mainly affecting the brain and spinal cord. It happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin, the protective layer around nerve fibers, causing inflammation and damage that interferes with communication between the brain and the rest of the body. 

Because MS can impact many parts of the nervous system, its symptoms are often varied and unpredictable. These may include fatigue, weakness, numbness, balance or walking difficulties, and changes in cognition and mood.

For many people living with MS, the impact extends beyond physical function to work, family life, emotional health, and long-term planning. Modern therapies can decrease disease activity and help maintain function. Comprehensive care, like that provided at the Lahey MS and Neuroimmunology Center, can help individuals continue to lead active, meaningful lives.

While multiple sclerosis is the most common autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, it is not the only one. The Lahey MS Center evaluates and treats a variety of autoimmune and inflammatory neurologic disorders, including:

Early and Accurate Diagnosis

At the Lahey MS Center, we are dedicated to providing you with the most accurate diagnosis possible because early detection of MS can make a significant difference. When you visit us, you'll meet with a neurologist who specializes in multiple sclerosis, and they'll take the time to listen carefully to your story and symptoms. We use detailed MRI scans of the brain and spinal cord, specifically designed to identify signs of MS. In some cases, we might recommend a lumbar puncture to analyze spinal fluid for additional insights.

Our team thoroughly rules out other conditions that may resemble MS, such as small vessel (vascular) disease, autoimmune disorders, or metabolic issues. Above all, we dedicate time to guiding you through the results, explaining what they mean in simple, clear language, and discussing the next steps. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, supported, and cared for every step of the way.

Personalizing Your Own Treatment

Choosing your treatment for multiple sclerosis is a personal decision. MS can vary greatly from one person to another, so therapy choices depend on the specific subtype of MS (relapsing or progressive), level of disease activity, MRI results, previous relapses, and overall risk profile. We also take into account other medical conditions, lifestyle factors, risk tolerance, and family planning goals when discussing options.

Our center offers the full spectrum of FDA-approved MS therapies, which include oral medications, infusion treatments, and injectable agents:

Each option brings its own mix of effectiveness, safety, and monitoring needs. We work together in a clear and open way to review all these details, making sure your treatment choices are a collaborative process that truly reflects what matters most to you and your future goals.

Our Treatment Philosophy

Our approach to care focuses on “Treat to Target” disease management and “Comprehensive Symptom Management."

By adopting a “Treat to Target” approach, we closely monitor disease activity through regular check-ups and MRI scans. We modify the treatment plan as needed to help reduce relapses, prevent new MRI activity, and slow disability progression. We carefully assess how well the treatment is working to make informed, proactive choices aimed at safeguarding long-term neurological health.

Comprehensive symptom management is equally vital. Fatigue, spasticity, pain, cognitive changes, mood disorders, gait impairment, and bladder or bowel dysfunction can all significantly impact daily life. We address these symptoms with an interdisciplinary team and personalized care plans that combine medication management, rehabilitation strategies, exercise counseling, and behavioral interventions to support function, independence, and quality of life.

Support Beyond The Clinic

Multiple sclerosis care doesn’t end after an appointment. MS is a chronic condition that evolves over time, and questions or new symptoms don’t always follow a predictable pattern. That’s why our relationship with you extends far beyond the clinic walls.

We offer a clear point of contact whenever concerns arise. Whether you're experiencing new symptoms, wondering if a change signals a relapse, or just need clarification about your treatment plan, we're here to guide you through the next steps in a prompt and thoughtful manner.

If a relapse or unexpected problem occurs, we efficiently coordinate evaluation, imaging, and treatment to minimize disruption and reduce uncertainty. For patients receiving infusion therapies or specialty medications, we collaborate closely with infusion centers and specialty pharmacies to ensure smooth scheduling, proper monitoring, and insurance coordination.

Education is also a key part of our care. We take time to help you and your families understand the disease process, treatment options, and what to expect over time. Our goal is for you to feel informed, supported, and confident in your care plan, not just during visits but at every step of the way.

Research and Community Engagement

The Lahey Multiple Sclerosis Center actively participates in clinical research and trials that evaluate emerging therapies and innovative treatment strategies. By taking part in research, patients may access cutting-edge treatments while helping advance knowledge that benefits the wider MS community.

We are also committed to education and community engagement. Our activities include

An annual symposium for individuals living with MS, their families, and the community

By fostering a strong connection between research, clinical care, and community involvement, we aim to not only deliver exceptional treatment today but also to help shape the future of Multiple Sclerosis care for everyone we serve.

If you are seeking comprehensive, personalized MS care, we invite you to schedule an appointment with our team and take the next step forward with confidence.