269. MS Progress Tests You Can Do at Home: Walking, Strength & Balance

In this episode I dive into the most effective objective functional outcome measures for MS—the same gold standard tests used in physical therapy and neurology clinics to track real improvements in walking, strength, and mobility.  I break down exactly how you can perform tests like the Timed 25-Foot Walk Test, Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test, and Sit-to-Stand assessments safely at home, plus how to use your results to measure progress, motivation, and the impact of your exercises or interventions.  Whether you’re struggling with MS or supporting someone who is, you’ll learn practical tips, strategies, and real-world tools to help empower your journey and improve your quality of life with MS.  Join me for this value-packed episode full of evidence-based insights for managing MS symptoms, understanding physical therapy outcome measures, and taking charge of your MS care between clinic visits! Resources mentioned in the episode: The MSing Link App - Google Play || Apple App Store   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I’m sharing how to track your multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms at home using two research-backed self-assessment questionnaires: the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) and the Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12 (MSWS-12).  As a physical therapist specializing in MS, I’ll walk you through how these gold-standard MS outcome measures can help you assess your progress with exercise, nutrition, or any wellness routine.  You’ll learn the difference between subjective and objective MS tests, why tracking your symptoms matters, and how regular self-assessment can boost your confidence and guide smarter treatment decisions.  Resources mentioned in the episode: The MSing Link App - Google Play || Apple App Store   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Steve Capobianco, chiropractor and co-founder of RockTape, to dive into the benefits of kinesiology tape for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). We discuss how kinesiology tape can help with challenging MS symptoms like spasticity, muscle weakness, balance issues, and even foot drop.  You’ll learn practical strategies for improving mobility and movement using tape, gain insights on how this tool works by communicating with the nervous system, and get tips on safely applying it at home.  If you’re searching for MS exercises, expert advice, and evidence-based ways to get stronger and walk better with MS, this friendly conversation is filled with actionable tools for boosting your independence and confidence. Whether you have relapsing or progressive MS, tune in for empowerment and inspiration! About Dr. Steve Capobianco: Dr. Steven Capobianco, a chiropractor with over 20 years of experience and co-founder of RockTape. Dr. Capobianco is a passionate educator and innovator in manual and movement therapy, with advanced training including a post-doctoral diploma in rehabilitation and certification as a strength and conditioning specialist. He's dedicated his career to helping people understand how simple tools like kinesiology tape can communicate with the nervous system to improve movement and reduce symptoms. Resources Mentioned in this episode: How Kinesiology Tape Can Help People with Multiple Sclerosis Feel and Move Better: https://rocktape.com/blogs/rocktape/how-kinesiology-tape-can-help-people-with-multiple-sclerosis-feel-and-move-better   Connect with Dr. Steve Capobianco:Website: https://rocktape.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RockTapeGoStrongerLongerMovement Advocate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themovementadvocate/ Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

 In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most common mobility challenges for people with multiple sclerosis—difficulty bending the knee. As a physical therapist specializing in MS, I’ll walk you through targeted knee bending exercises, strategies to strengthen your hamstrings, and practical tips to release tightness and spasticity in your quadriceps. These actionable tools can help improve your walking, stair climbing, and everyday movement.  Join me for expert advice, step-by-step assessments, and easy modifications so you can gain strength, flexibility, and function. Tune in if you’re looking for MS-specific exercises, rehab techniques, and support to regain confidence and quality of life! Resources mentioned in the episode: Knee Bending Exercises for MS: Strengthen Hamstrings & Release Tightness | MS Physical Therapy [YouTube Version of this episode] - https://youtu.be/o2_kYh5qOLk   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I’m thrilled to sit down with Vickie Hadge to talk about practical ways to manage multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms through evidence-based diet and holistic lifestyle changes. We cover the “DESK” approach—Diet, Exercise, Sleep, and Kindness—and share actionable strategies on how these healthy habits can help reduce MS fatigue, brain fog, spasticity, and stress. You’ll learn how to make dietary changes even when your family eats differently, plus get realistic tips for improving sleep quality and practicing mindfulness. Whether you’re looking for MS exercises, MS diet advice, or ways to build a supportive MS wellness routine, you’ll find tools and inspiration here to boost your mobility, strength, and quality of life with MS. Join us for this empowering conversation and take a step toward living your healthiest life with MS! About Vickie Hadge: Vickie Hadge has been managing her multiple sclerosis through diet and lifestyle changes for nearly two decades. After her first MS relapse in 2006 resulted in foot drop, Vickie began implementing evidence-based lifestyle modifications and went 10 years without another relapse. Since her official diagnosis in 2017, she's combined a disease modifying therapy with a whole food plant-based diet, daily exercise, quality, sleep, and mindfulness practices. It sounds like a lot, but Vickie makes it sound and gives tips to make it super manageable and attainable. Vickie shares her expertise through her YouTube channel and Facebook page called Even So It Is Well where She Helps Others with MS live their healthiest lives. Connect with Vickie:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/evensoitiswellFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/evensoitiswell/Newsletter: https://evensoitiswell.subscribemenow.com/Email: [email protected] Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this special episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I’m celebrating major wins from our community—including reaching listeners in 57 countries and welcoming MSing Link members from 33 countries this year!  I share the biggest milestones we’ve hit together, how we’re making MS physical therapy more accessible across the globe, and the launch of tools like Dr. Gretchen AI for 24/7 MS support.  Whether you’re looking for evidence-based MS exercises, fresh strategies for walking and strength, or inspiration for your MS journey, this episode is filled with inspiration, expert advice, and heartfelt community moments.  Join me as I reflect on how far we’ve come in providing life-changing MS resources and support, and how YOU can keep seeing what’s possible in your own life with multiple sclerosis. If you’re searching for MS physical therapy, ways to get stronger with MS, or practical tips to improve MS mobility and independence, this episode is for you! Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I’m joined by nationally board-certified health and wellness coach Amy Behimer to explore how health coaching can empower people with multiple sclerosis (MS) to take charge of their symptoms and boost quality of life.  We dive into the latest research from the National MS Society showing that 85% of participants felt more confident managing their MS after working with a coach.  Amy Behimer shares her unique perspective as a health coach, pharmacist, and someone living with MS herself. We discuss the differences between types of coaching, how health coaching supports consistency, and strategies for building habits that stick—plus, what to look for when choosing the right coach for your own MS journey.  Whether you’re newly diagnosed, living with progressive MS, or seeking practical tools for improving mobility, strength, and independence, this episode offers research-backed advice and encouragement to help you move forward with confidence! About Amy Behimer:  Amy Behimer brings a unique triple perspective to our conversation. She's a nationally board certified health and wellness coach specializing in autoimmune disease, a doctor of pharmacy, and someone who's been living with primary progressive MS for nearly 14 years. Amy has been a guest expert inside The MSing Link twice now.    Resources Mentioned:Club Habit Hub Sign Up: https://amybehimercoaching.com/joinThe MSing Link Episode 204, How To Stay Consistent with Amy Behimer - Apple | Spotify    Connect with Amy:Website: https://amybehimercoaching.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewellnessway_mountpleasant/ Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

 In this special solo episode, I’m sharing my top strategies to help you start the new year strong and stay consistent with your MS goals!  As a physical therapist specializing in multiple sclerosis, I’ll walk you through two actionable tips—digging deep to find your true “why” and building proof you can succeed—to boost motivation, stay on track, and improve your mobility, strength, energy, and independence.  Whether you want to exercise more, improve your walking, or stick with a healthy routine, these practical techniques are tailored for the MS community and backed by research-driven insights. Tune in for empowering advice and easy-to-follow MS exercises, plus a quick overview of my Game Changers Course designed just for people with MS. Start your year with confidence and discover how small changes can make a big difference in your MS journey!   Resources Mentioned:The MSing Link, Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Dr. Jenny McMullen, a holistic chiropractor and owner of The Wellness Way in Mount Pleasant, WI to dive into a topic so many in our MS community have been asking about: MS, fertility, and hormone health!  We discuss how autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis can impact your ability to conceive, the powerful connection between gut health, hormones, and inflammation, and the best steps you can take to support your fertility journey—whether you’re just starting out or looking to optimize your hormone balance. Dr. Jenny Mcmullen shares practical strategies for reducing stress, removing inflammatory foods, and understanding your unique body through testing.  Tune in for expert tips, actionable advice, and the empowering message that with the right holistic support, your MS diagnosis doesn’t have to stand in the way of your family-building dreams or well-being.   About Dr. Jenny McMullen:  Dr. Jenny McMullen is a doctor of chiropractic who owns The Wellness Way Mount Pleasant Clinic in Wisconsin. Dr. Jenny takes a whole body holistic approach to health, looking at everything from gut health and hormone balance to toxic stress and nutrition. Resources Mentioned:Complimentary Call with The Wellness Way (Dr. Jenny McMullen’s office): https://thewellnesswaypleasantprairie.janeapp.com/   Connect with The Wellness Way:Website: https://www.twwmountpleasant.com/Email: [email protected]\Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewellnessway_mountpleasant/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twwmountpleasant   Connect with Dr. Jenny:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennymcmullendc/   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I’m sharing my 2025 MS Holiday Gift Guide—your go-to resource for finding thoughtful, practical, and fun gifts to support life with multiple sclerosis!  I highlight MS-friendly products designed to improve comfort, mobility, independence, and self-care, from cooling towels and weighted pens to vibration therapy tools and accessible fragrances.  Whether you’re searching for MS stocking stuffers, luxury wellness ideas, or meaningful ways to give back, you’ll discover expert recommendations backed by real community feedback. Tune in to learn how these tools can help with MS symptoms like heat sensitivity, fatigue, mobility challenges, and sensory overload. Plus, get details on exclusive discounts and my signature online program, The MSing Link, developed to help people with MS get stronger, walk better, and live with confidence. Find all links and resources in the show notes below! Links and Codes for all items:  ★ Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad https://amzn.to/4mmpmp2   ★ Weighted pens https://amzn.to/4qfko0g   ★ Mobility Towel https://mobilitytowel.com/   ★ Rare Beauty Perfume https://www.sephora.com/product/rare-eau-de-parfum-P517178   ★ Loop Switch 2 Ear Plugs https://amzn.to/4ms8LjI   ★ WalkingPad C2 Foldable Walking Treadmill http://www.walkingpad.com/DOCTORGRETCHEN;  Code: DOCTORGRETCHEN (20% off + free shipping)   ★ RockTape Rock Wave Pro https://rocktape.com/collections/manual-therapy-tools/products/rockwave-pro   ★ Rumblex Lifepro Vibration Plate https://lifepro.therave.co/UMMBVYNUH2WXDLZC 5% off with the link!    ★ The MSing Link + Shirts   ★ Donation to MS4MS https://ms4ms.org/   Watch this Gift Guide on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-iaVJQlxeg   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink