Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in Israel

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease, which results in loss of ability of the nervous system to communicate due to damage to brain and spinal cord nerve cells. It can either take the form of individual attacks with the patient appearing asymptomatic between them, or take chronic form.

MS Symptoms and Causes

Multiple sclerosis can affect a large number of systems in the body, resulting in a variety of symptoms such as:

• Impairment of cognitive abilities and memory loss
• Speech impairment
• Walking difficulties and spasticity
• Tremor and ataxia
• Pain (due to associated conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia, optic neuritis, etc.)
• Urinary symptoms (hesitation, leaking, retention, incontinence)
• Constipation and/or fecal incontinence
• Fatigue

There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis. The aim of the treatment (a combination of medicinal and physical therapy) is to achieve remission and preserve the patient’s quality of life. This is why most often, the patient is discharged following completion of investigations with a treatment plan (the treatment itself can take place in their country of origin).

Sample treatment program

• Consultation of a neurologist specializing in MS

• Bloodwork (SMAC, lipid & hormonal profiles, coagulation factors, electrolyte levels)
• Contrast-enhanced MRI scan

• Upper and lower limb EMG
• Visually evoked brain potentials (VEP)
• Audiometry (BERA and balance function tests)
• Visual fields test
• Neuro-ophthalmologist consultation
• Urodynamics and neuro-urologist consultation
• Conclusive MS neurologist consultation (treatment plan)

The aforementioned investigations can be completed within 5 business days.

Rehabilitation is recommended for long-time MS sufferers. At present, the best such program in Israel takes place at the Sheba Tel Hashomer Hospital’s Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, which is headed by Prof Gabriel Zeilig. The program includes physical therapy, medical gymnastics, and hydrotherapy.