Show Notes
What if the key to walking better, feeling stronger, and moving with more confidence isn't just in your muscles… but in your brain?
In this episode, I'm diving into one of my favorite topics as a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist and physical therapist: neuroplasticity and what it really means for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). If you've ever wondered why generic exercise programs haven't worked for you, or why "just doing more reps" hasn't moved the needle, this conversation is going to connect a lot of dots.
What you'll learn in this episode:
What neuroplasticity actually is, in plain language (think of it as the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles)
Why neuroplasticity is especially important for people with MS, and how it relates to demyelination, lesions, and rebuilding neural pathways
The difference between standard exercise and MS-specific, neuroplasticity-based functional exercise — and why that distinction matters for real progress
How repetition, intention, and specificity train your brain to communicate better with your body
Practical, MS-specific exercise strategies you can start using to support strength, walking, balance, coordination, and stability
Daily activities and small habits (outside of formal workouts) that reinforce change
How neuroplasticity supports not just physical symptoms, but also mindset, confidence, and mental resilience with MS
What the research says about neuroplasticity and MS — and what it does and does not promise
Why progress is still possible, even if you've been living with MS for years and feel like you've tried everything
Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
Website: www.MSingLink.com
Social:
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→ Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse
→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram
→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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In this solo episode, I'm answering one of the most common questions I hear from MSing Link members and people living with multiple sclerosis (MS): "What exercises should I do if my goal is ___?" Whether you want to walk up slopes, climb stairs with more strength, turn without losing your balance, or stand up from the couch without plopping, I'm sharing the two-step thought process I use as an MS-specialized physical therapist… so you can build an MS exercise routine that matches your goals.
I'm so excited to welcome Dr. Mandy Jacques, PT, DPT, MSCS, a physical therapist and Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist, for an in-depth conversation about electrical stimulation (e-stim) for multiple sclerosis (MS). We talk about the Neubie device from NeuFit, how it's used, and how it fits into a real-life exercise routine.
If multiple sclerosis (MS) fatigue has you sleeping eight hours and still waking up empty… this episode is for you.