Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Center

Nationally Recognized Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in Central Massachusetts and Beyond

UMass Memorial has the expertise and services you need to live the best possible quality of life. Highly skilled neurologists specializing in multiple sclerosis guide your care. They collaborate with additional providers to help you access specialized therapies, local resources, clinical trials and more. Our commitment to MS care excellence also includes affiliation with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis occurs when the immune system attacks your nerves' protective covering. These attacks leave scar tissue that affects the nerves' ability to communicate with the brain. It causes a variety of issues, including vision problems, numbness, difficulty walking, loss of bladder control, difficulty speaking and more.

Our Multiple Sclerosis Services

UMass Memorial provides comprehensive evaluation and multiple sclerosis treatments, eliminating the need to coordinate services from multiple providers. 
Our multiple sclerosis services include:

MS Diagnosis

You undergo a complete neurological evaluation to confirm your diagnosis, including the type of MS you have. We review imaging studies and doctor notes from other providers you may have seen. Experts may also recommend getting an MRI if it's been a while since your last scan.

Nursing and Patient Education 

Nurses explain the diagnosis, what to expect and how multiple sclerosis treatments work. We also teach you how to take care of yourself between appointments so that you get the most out of recommended therapies.

Rehabilitative Therapies

Highly skilled physical and occupational therapists lessen the impact of MS on your daily life. You may benefit from rehabilitation therapy services that slow the progression of balance, breathing and walking issues. We also offer expert consultation for leg braces and other assistive devices.

Spasticity Treatments

Unusually tight or stiff muscles are common with MS. We use a variety of methods to help you get relief. Options include intrathecal baclofen pumps, which deliver medicine directly to relax the affected muscles.

Neuropsychology Evaluation

Specially trained psychologists evaluate the impact of multiple sclerosis on thinking and other cognitive abilities. This information helps you receive additional services that optimize your independence and safety. Get more information about neuropsychology services.  

Care for Other Conditions

People with MS face a higher risk of other neurologic and inflammatory conditions, including neurolupus, neurosarcoidosis, vasculitis and neuro-HIV infection. We deliver therapies and refer you to other UMass Memorial specialists as needed.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

Your first visit to the multiple sclerosis center may last 90 minutes or more. Please bring with you:

• MRI scans: Neurologists will want to see any scans you received related to MS symptoms. Please ask for the actual scan and not just the radiologist's report.
• All related doctor's notes: You may need to sign a release from the other providers you have seen to gather this information. 
• Personal history: Write down a list of all your symptoms and how they affect you. 
• Questions: It's natural to have questions during your first visit. Many patients write their questions in advance to ensure we cover everything important.