Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The MSing Link

If you've ever walked out of an MRI appointment still wondering what's actually happening inside your body right now… this episode is for you.

In this episode, I'm joined by Jennifer Chester, a neurology nurse practitioner who works with Octave Bioscience, to talk about a blood test (available in the US) built specifically for multiple sclerosis (MS). Not a diagnostic test, and not a replacement for your MRI. It's a way to measure MS disease activity between scans, using proteins in your blood.

We get into what biomarkers actually are, how the test works, what the number means, and how to bring it up with your neurologist without feeling like you're overstepping.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

🔬 What a biomarker actually is. A biomarker is anything measurable in your body that tells you something about what's going on inside it. Cholesterol is a biomarker. Blood sugar is a biomarker. In MS, researchers have identified specific proteins that show up in the blood when there's inflammation, myelin breakdown, or nerve fiber damage happening. Measuring those proteins gives your care team information they can't get from asking how you feel.

🩸 How an MS-specific blood test works. The Octave MSDA (Multiple Sclerosis Disease Activity) Test measures 18 different proteins in a standard blood draw, then factors in your age and sex to generate a disease activity score. Why 18 and not one? Because MS isn't one process. It's immune activity, inflammation in the nervous system, myelin biology, and nerve fiber damage happening at different rates in different people. A single protein only tells you about one of those. A panel gives a fuller picture.

📊 What the number actually means. The test produces a score from 1 to 10, along with subscores tied to those four biological pathways. On its own, one score is a snapshot. Tracked over time, it becomes a trend line, and the trend is where the useful information lives. Your neurologist is looking at whether your number is holding steady, climbing, or dropping while you're on a particular treatment.

🧠 Blood test versus MRI (they're not competing). This is the part I want you to hear clearly. An MRI shows lesions, which is damage that has already occurred. A blood-based biomarker test is designed to reflect biological activity that's happening now, at a level that may not have shown up on a scan yet. Jennifer explains why the test is intended to complement imaging and your clinical exam, not replace either one. More data points, not fewer.

❓ "Is this MS, or is it something else?" If you've ever had a new symptom appear and spent three weeks trying to figure out whether it's a relapse, an old symptom flaring in the heat, stress, perimenopause, or a virus… you know how exhausting that guessing game is. An objective disease activity score gives your neurologist one more piece of information to weigh alongside your history and your exam. It isn't a yes or no answer by itself, and it can't tell you what a symptom is caused by. But it can help your team sort signal from noise.

🗣️ How to bring this up with your neurologist. Jennifer walks through what that conversation can sound like, what to ask, and why it's completely reasonable to bring a testing option to your provider rather than waiting for them to bring it to you. You are allowed to ask questions about your own monitoring plan.

💵 The practical stuff: coverage, cost, and timing. We talk through how the test is typically ordered, what to expect around insurance coverage, and how often testing tends to be repeated. Coverage and cost vary quite a bit depending on your plan and where you live, so this is a "confirm with your own provider and insurer" situation rather than a one-size-fits-all answer.

This episode is for you if:

✅ You've had an MRI come back "stable" but you don't feel stable
✅ You're not sure whether a new symptom is a relapse or something else entirely
✅ You're on a disease-modifying therapy and you want to know if it's working
✅ You want more information about your MS than a scan every 12 months can give you
✅ You like understanding the science behind a recommendation, not just being handed one

 Jennifer Chester is a nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in MS care who now works at Octave Bioscience, helping bring a brand-new blood test to people with MS, and it's one that can actually measure disease activity in real time. (One important note, this text is only available in the US). 

Where to reach Jennifer & Octave Bioscience:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@eventsoctave?si=vHCktRGw5NBq8q_g

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OctaveBioscience?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/octave-bio/

Website: https://www.octavebio.com/

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Conversation guide for your doctor: https://www.octavebio.com/patients

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

If walking is taking more out of you than it used to… this episode is for you.

In this solo episode, I'm walking you through how to choose the right mobility aid when you have multiple sclerosis (MS). Canes, trekking poles, walkers, rollators, and wheelchairs. This isn't a ranked list of products. It's my top strategy for figuring out what your body actually needs, so you're not spending money on something that sits in the closet.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

The one question to ask before you choose anything. Most people start with "which device is best?" That's the wrong starting point. The better question is what specifically is happening when you walk. Are you unsteady side to side? Is one leg dragging? Are you fine for the first ten minutes and wobbly after that? The answer points you toward a very different device in each case, and I'll walk you through how to figure out which bucket you're in.

Base of support, and why it changes everything. Base of support is the area between your points of contact with the ground (your two feet, plus anything else touching down). The wider that area, the more stable you are. This is the reason a cane feels like it does something and a walker feels like it does more. Once you understand this one concept, the whole category of mobility aids starts to make sense instead of feeling like a wall of options.

Canes and trekking poles. A cane adds a third point of contact and widens your base of support on one side. Trekking poles do something different: they keep you symmetrical, upright, and swinging both arms, instead of shifting your weight toward one hand. If your unsteadiness shows up on both sides, or you're mostly looking for confidence on uneven ground, poles may be a better fit than a single cane. I'll explain when I'd suggest each one.

Walkers and rollators. A rollator gives you a wide base of support, hand brakes for control, and a seat. That seat isn't a small detail. Having a place to sit means you can go out without calculating whether there will be somewhere to rest, which for a lot of people with MS is the actual barrier to leaving the house. We'll talk about the trade-offs, including how a rollator changes your posture if the height isn't set correctly.

Wheelchairs, scooters, and the Alinker. Using a wheeled device for part of your day doesn't mean you stop walking. For many people it's the opposite: energy saved on the long distances is energy available for the walking that matters most to you. The Alinker is a walking bike that keeps you upright and at eye level with the people around you while your own legs do the moving. I'll share my honest thoughts on where it fits and where it doesn't.

Matching the device to the day, not just to the diagnosis. Your symptoms may not be the same at 9am and 4pm, or in July versus January. A lot of people with MS use more than one device: poles for the neighborhood walk, a rollator for the grocery store, a scooter for the zoo with the grandkids. That's not inconsistency. That's energy conservation, and it's a strategy.

Getting the fit right. A device that's the wrong height sends you right back into the postural habits you're trying to get out of. I'll cover the basics of height and positioning, and why it's worth having your physical therapist or healthcare provider check the fit before you commit.

This episode is for you if:

✅ You're tripping more, or you've had a fall (or a close call) that shook your confidence
✅ You've been putting off getting a mobility aid because of what you think it says about you
✅ You already own something that isn't quite working and you're not sure why
✅ You've noticed you're skipping outings because the walking involved feels like too much
✅ You're the type of person with MS who has always been independent and wants to stay that way
✅ You want to understand why something works, not just be told to buy it

A mobility aid isn't a step backward. It's a tool that changes what your day can hold. The right one, fitted correctly, can mean more distance, more energy left over, and more of the things you actually want to do. Progress, not perfection. You've got this. 🧡

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

 MS Mobility Equipment Guide -  https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/ms-mobility-equipment-guide-podcast

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

300 episodes ago, I hit record for the first time and hoped a handful of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) would find something useful in it.

Now there are people in 27 countries doing these exercises. Some of you have been here since episode 1. Some of you found us last week, three days after diagnosis, at 2am, looking for anything that made sense.

This one is for you.

I'm not teaching a new exercise this week. I'm sharing what's actually worked for people in this community, and pointing you back to the episodes that keep helping the most people.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

The stories you've sent me. Progress with MS almost never looks like a before-and-after photo. It looks like standing up from the couch without using your hands. Getting through a grocery store without scanning for somewhere to sit. Walking your dog to the end of the street and back. I'm sharing some of these in this episode because when you hear someone describe your exact symptom and then describe what helped, it changes what you believe is possible for you.

Why MS-specific exercise is different. Generic exercise programs train muscles. MS-specific, physical therapy-based exercise trains the signal… that wifi connection between your brain and your muscles. Repetition with intention is what strengthens that pathway. It's why 10 focused minutes can do more for your walking than an hour of the wrong thing.

📚 The MSing Link book and membership. What made me write it, what's inside, and how the membership works for people who want live feedback on how they're actually moving instead of guessing from a video.

What 300 episodes have taught me. Mostly this: people with MS are not out of options nearly as often as they've been told they are. Not everything about MS can be changed. Some things are permanent, and I'm never going to pretend otherwise. But there is almost always something you can work on.

This episode is for you if:
✅ You're newly diagnosed and looking for a place to start
✅ You've been living with MS for years and feel like your progress has stalled
✅ You want to hear from other people with MS who understand what your day actually looks like
✅ You're not sure which episodes to start with out of 300
✅ You want strategies you can use this week, not someday
✅ You need a reminder that small progress still counts

Thank you for 300 episodes. Thank you for the emails, the questions, the wins you send me, and the ones you didn't think were big enough to mention (they were).

Here's to the next 300. You've got this.

Progress, not perfection. 🧡

 Special Promo for this episode: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/offers/7d8oE6Cn/checkout

Resources Mentioned in the episode: 

The MSing Link Episode 1, What Is An MS Specialist & Why Did I Become One?, Apple || Spotify

The MSing Link Episode 249, Spilling the Tea: My Interview on the Messy Podcast with Christina Applegate & Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Apple || Spotify

The MSing Link Episode 173, Early Symptoms of MS & MS Prodrome w/ Dr. Barry Singer, Apple || Spotify

The MSing Link Episode 246, MS Walking Problems? Real Results from MS‑Specific Exercises & Expert Insights, Apple || Spotify

The MSing Link Book: Amazon

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

If MS has your legs feeling tight, heavy, or slow to respond… this episode is for you.

In this episode, I'm joined by vibration therapy expert Debbie Pelletier to answer the questions I get asked most about vibration plates and multiple sclerosis (MS). Not in a "here's a fancy piece of equipment" way. In a "here's what's actually happening in your body, here's how to use it, and here's what to check before you spend the money" way.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

What is vibration plate therapy, actually? A vibration plate sends rapid, repeated movement up through your feet and into your muscles. Those quick changes in length trigger your muscle spindles (the sensors inside your muscle that track stretch), which fire a reflex response and pull more muscle fibers into the action. It also floods your brain with sensory information from your feet and legs… which matters a lot when MS has dulled that signal.

Oscillating vs. vertical: why the difference matters for you. Oscillating plates tip side to side around a center point, like a seesaw, so one foot rises while the other drops. Vertical (or linear) plates move the whole surface straight up and down. They load your body differently, they feel different, and one may suit your balance and symptoms better than the other. Debbie breaks down how to tell which is which when you're shopping.

Can you use one if you're brand new to exercise or have mobility concerns? Short answer: often yes, with the right setup. We talk through seated use, holding onto a stable support, standing with a chair in front of you, and how to position your knees so you're not locking them out.

How long should you actually stand on it? We get specific about session length, how to build up gradually instead of starting at the longest setting on day one, and how often per week makes sense alongside your strength work.

Where it fits (and where it doesn't). A vibration plate is one tool. It can help prime your muscles before you exercise or take the edge off tightness, but it doesn't replace the exercises that build strength and retrain the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles. We talk about how to stack the two so the plate is supporting your routine, not standing in for it.

What to know before you buy. Frequency range, amplitude, weight capacity, platform size, handles or no handles, warranty, price range, and the features that sound impressive but don't change your results. Bring a notebook for this part.

Safety and who should check with their doctor first. There are situations where a vibration plate isn't the right call, or needs medical clearance first. We name them clearly so you can have an informed conversation with your provider.

What the research does and doesn't show. Whole body vibration has been studied in people with MS, and some findings are encouraging for spasticity and muscle activation. But the studies are small and the results are mixed. I'll tell you honestly where the evidence is strong, where it's thin, and what that means for your decision.

This episode is for you if:

✅ Spasticity or tightness in your legs is part of your daily life
✅ You've seen vibration plates online and can't tell if they're legit or hype
✅ You're wondering if you can use one from a seated position or with a mobility aid
✅ Fatigue makes long workouts feel impossible and you're looking for tools that work with your energy
✅ You want to understand why something works before you try it

A vibration plate isn't a shortcut, and it isn't magic. Used well, it can be a useful piece of a plan that's built for your symptoms and your goals. Progress, not perfection. 🧡

Debby Pelletier  is a vibration plate specialist and clinical educator with nearly two decades of experience developing safe progression-based protocols both for home and clinical settings.

She's a LifePro trainer, has been featured in Consumer Reports, and supports hospitals and doctors globally who are using vibration therapy. She knows this technology inside and out, and she's super passionate about making it accessible and understandable for everyday people.

Where to reach Debby:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@debbypelletier

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/586296542104578

Website: https://debsvibe.com/

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

LifePro: https://lifeprofitness.com/DEBBYLP

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

If MS symptoms feel heavier in the summer… or after a hot shower, a walk in the sun, or a workout that didn't used to wipe you out, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I'm walking you through heat sensitivity and heat intolerance in multiple sclerosis (MS). Why heat can make fatigue, brain fog, spasticity, and walking difficulties ramp up, what's actually happening inside your nerves when it does, and what you can do about it. Not in a "just stay inside until October" way. In a "here's the mechanism and here's your plan" way.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

What heat actually does to nerve signals in MS. MS damages myelin, the coating around your nerves that helps signals travel quickly and cleanly. Even a small rise in your core body temperature can slow those signals down further, or block them entirely along nerves that are already working hard to get the message through. That's why heat doesn't create new symptoms so much as it turns up the volume on the ones you already have.

Uhthoff's phenomenon (aka the temporary worsening of MS symptoms when your body temperature rises). This has a name, it's been documented for over a century, and it's not in your head. I'll explain what qualifies, why it's considered a pseudo-exacerbation rather than a relapse for most people, and why that distinction matters for how you respond in the moment.

Why symptoms often ease back down once you cool off. For many people with MS, heat-related changes are temporary and reverse as core temperature drops. Knowing that can take some of the panic out of a bad heat day. It doesn't always mean nothing can be done about it, and it doesn't mean you should white-knuckle through it. It means cooling down is a legitimate intervention, not a rest break.

How to actually cool your core body temperature. Not just "drink water." I'll get specific about pre-cooling before activity, which parts of your body give you the most cooling for the least effort (hands, feet, neck, and face have blood vessels close to the surface that help dump heat quickly), and how cold liquids and ice work from the inside out.

Which cooling products are worth it. Cooling vests, neck wraps, cooling towels, fans, cold packs. Some do real work, some are mostly marketing, and some are worth it only for specific situations. I'll walk through what to look for and how to think about the cost, including the fact that some MS organizations offer cooling equipment programs.

How to modify your exercise routine in hot weather. Time of day, room temperature, seated versus standing options, shorter bouts with cooling breaks built in, and water-based movement. The goal isn't to stop exercising in the summer. It's to keep the neuroplasticity work going (that wifi connection between your brain and your muscles) without overheating in the process.

How to keep your progress through heat season. Consistency is what builds new pathways between your brain and your muscles, so the strategy is adjusting your routine, not pausing it. I'll walk you through what to scale back, what to protect, and how to tell the difference between a heat day and a day your body needs rest.

This episode is for you if:

✅ Your fatigue, brain fog, or leg weakness gets noticeably worse in warm weather
✅ A hot shower leaves you more wobbly than when you got in
✅ You've been told heat "affects everyone" and you know what you're feeling is more than that
✅ You've been skipping your exercises all summer and you're worried about losing ground
✅ You want to understand why something works, not just be told to do it

You don't need to hide from summer to protect your progress. You need to know what heat is doing to your nervous system, and you need a few specific strategies you can actually use on a 90 degree day. Progress, not perfection. You've got this 🧡

Resources Mentioned in the episode: 

Dr. Gretchen’s Amazon Storefront (Dr. Gretchen gets a small commission): https://www.amazon.com/shop/doctor.gretchen

The MSing Link Episode 242, How to NOT Overdo Exercise with MS: 7 Strategies by an MS Physical Therapist, Apple || Spotify

Free Walking Webinar: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/Walking-Webinar

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

 If you're living with MS and wondering whether pregnancy is still on the table for you… this episode is for you.

Maybe you just saw two lines on a test and your first thought wasn't joy, it was "what do I do about my medication?" Maybe you're a year out from trying and you want to plan this right. Either way, you deserve real answers, not a shrug.

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Christina Chambers, PhD, MPH, a perinatal epidemiologist and professor of pediatrics at UC San Diego. She has spent her career studying what medications and exposures actually do during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and she brought all of it to this conversation about multiple sclerosis (MS) and pregnancy.

We covered the questions people with MS ask most, and a few they're often too nervous to ask out loud.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

What happens to MS symptoms during pregnancy? Many people with MS notice fewer relapses while pregnant, especially later in pregnancy. The working explanation is that pregnancy shifts how the immune system behaves so it doesn't reject the developing baby, and that shift can quiet the immune activity that drives MS relapses. 

How do you plan a pregnancy when you have MS? Dr. Chambers walks through the questions worth asking before you start trying, including timing around your current treatment, what "washout" means and why it's different for different medications, and how to build a plan with your neurologist and your OB in the same room instead of getting two answers that don't match.

What about MS medication and pregnancy / breastfeeding? This is one of the most common questions we get, and the answer is more nuanced than "yes" or "no." We talk about how researchers actually measure what passes into human milk, why some medications look very different from others in that respect, and how to weigh feeding goals against staying well yourself.

What happens to MS after delivery? The postpartum window gets less attention than it should. Research has pointed to an increased relapse risk in the first few months after birth for some people with MS, which is exactly when sleep is shortest and support is thinnest. We talk about planning for that stretch ahead of time rather than reacting to it.

How does anyone know any of this is safe? Dr. Chambers explains where pregnancy safety information actually comes from. Pregnant people aren't enrolled in the drug trials that come before approval, so most of what we know is built from observational studies that follow real pregnancies over time. Understanding this helps you read "we don't have enough data yet" for what it is, which is a gap in research, not a warning label.

Managing MS symptoms through pregnancy and postpartum. Your body is changing shape, your center of gravity is moving, and your MS symptoms don't pause for any of it. We talk about staying steady and staying strong through it, and why consistent, functional movement matters here just as much as it does the rest of the year.

This episode is for you if:

✅ You have MS and you're thinking about getting pregnant
✅ You're pregnant now and you're unsure what to do about your treatment plan
✅ You've been told to "just talk to your doctor" without getting a real answer
✅ You want to breastfeed and you don't know if your medication allows for it
✅ You're planning for the postpartum months and want to know what to expect
✅ You want to understand why the guidance says what it says, not just be handed a rule

Having MS doesn't automatically close the door on pregnancy. It means you need better information and a care team that talks to each other. This conversation is a place to start.

You've got this. 🧡

Dr. Christina Chambers is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine at UC San Diego. She is Chief of the Division of Environmental Science and Health, and Co-Director of the Center for Better Beginnings. She is the principal investigator of MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies, and the UC San Diego Human Milk Research Biorepository, two nation-wide longitudinal cohort studies focused on the safety of medications, vaccines, substances, infectious agents, and other environmental exposures in pregnancy and lactation. Dr. Chambers co-directs the HEALthy Brain and Child Development Study (HBCD), a nationwide research initiative focused on developmental trajectories of children in various environments from prenatal life through 10 years of age. In addition, Dr. Chambers leads research and educational initiatives in the U.S. and internationally on the prevention and treatment of children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. She co-directs the Community Engagement, Dissemination and Implementation unit in the Clinical and Translational Research Institute at UC San Diego which supports clinical research development in diverse populations.

Where to reach Dr. Christina Chambers:

MotherToBaby Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MotherToBaby

MotherToBaby TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@mothertobabyotis

MotherToBaby Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mothertobaby/

MotherToBaby “x”:https://x.com/mothertobaby

MotherToBaby LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/mothertobaby

MotherToBaby Pinterest:https://www.pinterest.com/mothertobaby/

MotherToBaby YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0O5nm_E_rS8I1BpO-C4eLw

MotherToBaby Threads:https://www.threads.net/@mothertobabyotis

Organization Website: https://betterbeginnings.org/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

If planning a simple outing with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) feels like juggling way more variables than it used to... this episode is for you.

This one's personal. I'm sharing a bit of a reality check from my own life, and walking you through the practical strategies I use (and teach) for planning ahead with MS, so you can move through your day, your week, and even the holidays, with more independence and less second-guessing.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

Why planning ahead matters more with MS. It's not about being overly cautious. It's about protecting your energy and your confidence so you actually get to enjoy the outing, the trip, or the walk, instead of just surviving it.

Dual-tasking (like walking and talking). When MS affects the communication between your brain and your muscles, doing two things at once, like walking while carrying on a conversation, can take more conscious effort than it used to. I'll explain why that happens and how to practice dual-tasking on purpose so it gets easier over time.

Choosing the right mobility aid for the day. Canes, walkers, and other supports aren't a sign of giving something up. They're a tool that can help you conserve energy and move with more confidence. I'll walk through what to consider when choosing one for your specific symptoms and environment for that day.

Energy conservation strategies. Your energy is a limited resource with MS, and spending it wisely (not just "pushing through") is what makes the rest of your day possible. I'll share specific ways to plan your outings so you have energy left when you need it most.

Preparing for different environments. Holidays, vacations, and even a walk around your neighborhood all come with their own variables, like uneven ground, crowds, or long stretches without a place to sit. I'll cover how to think through an environment ahead of time so you're not caught off guard.

Cognitive strategies for problem-solving on the go. MS can affect processing speed and working memory, which makes real-time decision-making (like adjusting a plan last minute) more tiring. I'll share a few strategies to make that easier on your brain.

This episode is for you if:

✅ You're navigating fatigue and want to plan around it instead of being surprised by it 

✅ You're considering a mobility aid but aren't sure where to start 

✅ Walking and talking at the same time takes more concentration than it used to 

✅ You're prepping for a holiday, trip, or event and want to feel more in control 

✅ You want strategies that are actually specific to MS, not generic advice

You don't need to overhaul your whole life to feel more prepared. You need a few strategies that work for your body and your symptoms, used consistently. Progress, not perfection. You've got this. 🧡

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

 If you're a woman with multiple sclerosis (MS) and you've noticed your fatigue, brain fog, or word-finding trouble getting worse in your 40s or 50s… you're not imagining it. And you're not alone in this.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, a leading MS neurologist and menopause researcher from UCLA, to talk about something the MS community rarely hears explained clearly: what menopause is actually doing to your brain, and why it can look and feel so much like an MS flare.

Here's the part that surprised me most. Your MRI can come back completely clean… no new lesions… and you can still feel like your cognition is slipping. That doesn't mean nothing is happening. It means we need to look at what's happening at the cellular level, not just the lesion level.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

Why estrogen matters for your brain, not just your reproductive system. Estrogen receptors sit on neurons and on the cells that support them. When estrogen drops during perimenopause and menopause, those cells lose a signal they've been relying on for decades. That's one reason cognition and energy can shift so noticeably during this window.

What is the difference between smoldering MS vs. menopause-related change? These two can produce similar symptoms (fatigue, brain fog, slower processing) through very different mechanisms. Dr. Voskuhl explains how to tell them apart and why your neurologist may not have brought this up.

Why "your MRI looks fine" isn't the whole story? MRI shows lesions. It doesn't show gray matter atrophy well, and it doesn't show what's happening inside cells that are still alive but struggling. Your symptoms are real data.

What is estriol, the pregnancy estrogen, and why it's different? Many women with MS notice their symptoms quiet down during the third trimester. Estriol is a big part of why. Dr. Voskuhl walks through the research on estriol as a potential MS treatment and how it differs from traditional hormone replacement therapy.

So many women with MS are told their symptoms are "just MS" or "just menopause" and sent on their way with no plan. Both answers leave you stuck. What you deserve is a clear explanation of what's happening in your body and options you can actually act on.

If you've been quietly wondering whether hormones are part of your picture, this one's for you. And if you're the type of person who wants to understand the why behind your symptoms before you change anything… you're going to get a lot out of Dr. Voskuhl's explanations.

 Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl is a professor of neurology at UCLA, director of the UCLA MS Program, and the faculty neurologist for the UCLA Comprehensive Menopause Care Program. She has spent over 25 years researching how sex hormones affect the brain with continuous NIH funding and over 200 publications in journals like Nature and Lancet Neurology. She's also the inventor behind the treatment that is now available through CleopatraRx, a company that she co-founded to bring this research directly to patients across the country.

Where to reach Dr. Voskuhl:

Instagram for Cleopatra RX: https://www.instagram.com/cleopatra_menopause_care/

LinkedIn for Cleopatra RX: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleopatrarx/

LinkedIn for Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rhonda-voskuhl/

Instagram for Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl:https://www.instagram.com/dr_rhonda_voskuhl/ 

Website: https://cleopatrarx.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=spotify&utm_campaign=msinglink 

Book a consultation: https://cleopatrarx.com/start-your-treatment/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=spotify&utm_campaign=msinglink

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Article on Menopause and MS: https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/features/menopause-and-multiple-sclerosis-neurologic-manifestations/%20' 

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

If MS has left you feeling like your body is folding forward… this episode is for you.

In this episode, I'm walking you through the connection between posture, core strength, and daily function for people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Not in a textbook way, in a "here's what's actually happening in your body and here's what to do about it" way.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

Does your core matter? Your core isn't just abs. It's the group of muscles that stabilizes your trunk so your arms and legs have something solid to work from. When that stability is missing, your body compensates… and that shows up as unsteady walking, poor balance, and low back pain that won't quit.

How posture changes your breathing. When your ribcage collapses forward, your diaphragm can't move through its full range. Less air in means less oxygen available for your muscles, which means more fatigue doing the same activities. Sitting taller isn't about looking better. It's about giving your lungs room to work.

What are common posture imbalances I see in people with MS? Forward head position, rounded shoulders, an anterior pelvic tilt (your pelvis tipping forward, arching your low back), and the compensations that build on top of them. I'll explain why they happen and what they're costing you day to day.

Targeted core and back exercises. Specific movements you can start with, why each one works, and how to modify them whether you're standing, seated, or working from a wheelchair.

Neuroplasticity and functional exercise. Your brain can build new pathways to your muscles at any age… that wifi connection between your brain and your body can get stronger with the right practice. I'll explain what "the right practice" actually means and why repetition with intention beats hard workouts every time.

What posture products are worth it? Braces, cushions, supports, gadgets. Some help. Some just do the work your muscles should be doing, which makes those muscles weaker over time. I'll tell you which is which.

This episode is for you if:

✅ You've noticed you're slumping more than you used to
✅ Low back pain has become part of your daily life
✅ You feel out of breath doing things that never used to wind you
✅ You're tripping more, or your walking feels less steady
✅ You want to understand why something works, not just be told to do it

You don't need long workouts or an hour a day. You need the right exercises for your symptoms, done consistently. Progress, not perfection.

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this solo episode, I'm sharing a lightbulb moment I had recently... one that made me realize how easy it is to slip into autopilot with our routines when we're living with multiple sclerosis.

You know the feeling. You're doing the same 10 exercises you've done for the last two years. Same stretches. Same breakfast. Same everything. Not because it's what your body needs right now, but because it's what you started doing back when you first got serious about your MS.

Here's the thing... your MS isn't the same as it was two years ago. Your strength isn't. Your goals probably aren't either. So why is your routine?

In this episode, I walk through:

✅ Why autopilot happens (and why it's not a willpower problem)

✅ How to tell the difference between a habit that's still working and one you've outgrown

✅ The specific questions to ask yourself when reassessing your MS exercise routine

I also talk about why "just keep going" isn't always the right advice. Consistency matters — but consistency with the wrong thing keeps you stuck in a really convincing way.

This isn't about starting over. It's about checking in. Your movement still counts... but it counts more when it's pointed at the goals you actually have today.

Progress, not perfection. You've got this. 🧡

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

Okay, I've been looking forward to sharing this one with you.

In this episode, I'm chatting with Damian Washington about something I know so many of you wrestle with... how do you stay motivated when you're working toward goals with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the progress feels slow, or a setback knocks you back a few steps?

Damian and I get into the good stuff. We talk about the power of repetition (spoiler: it matters way more than pushing yourself to the max), and why you really need both short-term and long-term goals working together. We dig into how to build healthy habits that support your mobility, strength, and daily function... the kind of habits that actually stick, even on the days when MS makes everything harder.

We also talk about the role of affirmations, how to build in real accountability, and how to make room for both your wins AND your setbacks. Because here's the thing: forward motion doesn't mean every day is a good day. It means you keep going anyway.

You're going to walk away from this one with actual tools. Not vague "just stay positive" stuff, but real, doable tips and mindset shifts you can use to strengthen your body and your mind, feel better in your daily life with MS, and stay consistent even when your motivation dips.

Whether you're focused on your exercises, drinking more water, or just trying to build a routine that works with your real life... this conversation is full of encouragement, honest insight, and examples you can actually relate to.

You've got this. And I think this episode is going to remind you of that.

In this episode, I share:

→ Why repetition beats intensity when you're building strength and mobility with MS 

→ Short-term vs. long-term goals, and why you need both 

→ How to build habits that stick, even through fatigue and brain fog 

→ The role of affirmations and shifting how you talk to yourself 

→ Building accountability so you actually stay consistent 

→ How to hold space for wins and setbacks without losing momentum 

→ Keeping yourself moving forward on the tough days 

→ Hydration and the small daily habits that support your progress 

→ Creating sustainable routines instead of rigid, all-or-nothing rules

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

I'm back, and this is my first episode recording since going on maternity leave and welcoming my second daughter into the world. So many of you in The MSing Link and on social media have been asking about my birth story, and I wanted to share part of it with you. But this episode is about so much more than childbirth.

It's about realizing how strong you already are… even if you've forgotten it. Especially if you don't feel it.

In this episode, I share:

→ The arrival of Scarlett Townsend, and the special meaning behind her name (her middle name honors my husband's mom, who we lost this past November)

→ The decision that weighed on me my entire pregnancy: C-section or VBAC? And why I felt so much shame around the choice I ultimately made

→ Why staying local turned out to be exactly the right call, especially when my heart rate dropped into the 40s for nearly 24 hours after delivery

→ The chaos of those first weeks home: cluster feeding, two-kids-at-once mornings, a new puppy (ask me why… I honestly don't know), and my old friend, noise sensitivity

→ The ordinary moment on my couch (feeding Scarlett, singing "The Wheels on the Bus" into a toy microphone, and shooing the puppy away with one foot) when it hit me: Wait, I'm doing it. Look at me go.

I want to be clear: I'm not comparing my experience to living with MS. But I think this is something universal. We don't always find out what we're capable of until something asks us to rise.

Strength doesn't always look the way we imagine. Sometimes it looks like asking for help. Sometimes it looks like accepting the C-section instead of carrying shame about it. And sometimes it looks like getting out of bed, getting dressed, and walking around your home, all of which take real emotional and physical strength.

So this is your reminder: you are so much stronger than you think. And so much stronger than you feel. More likely than not, you did something hard today and didn't even stop to notice. Your movement still counts.

You've got this. 🧡

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

If you're someone with MS who knows exercise matters but can't seem to stay consistent… this episode is your pep talk.

We've all been there. You start the week with the best intentions, then by Wednesday the negative self-talk creeps in: "I'm too tired." "It's not working." "What's the point?" Sound familiar?

Here's the thing, exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have for improving mobility, strength, and independence with multiple sclerosis (MS). But the way you talk to yourself about it? That matters just as much as the workout itself.

In this episode, I'm breaking down:

→ Why mindset is the missing piece in most MS exercise routines 

→ The common thoughts that keep you stuck before you even start 

→ How to shift your mental habits so they support your goals instead of sabotaging them 

→ Practical strategies for building an exercise plan that actually fits your life 

→ Phrases you can borrow to boost your motivation on the hard days

This isn't about pretending everything is fine or forcing toxic positivity. It's about honest, research-backed strategies for people with MS who want to feel stronger, move better, and believe in what's possible again.

You've got this. 🧡

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

If you've ever been sitting on the couch, just minding your business, and suddenly your leg starts bouncing like it has a mind of its own… you're not imagining it. That's clonus. And it's one of the most misunderstood symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS).

In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I'm walking you through everything you need to know about clonus with MS… what it actually is, why it happens (hint: it's that wifi connection between your brain and your muscles getting a little staticky), and the small adjustments that can make a big difference in your daily life.

We'll talk about:

→ What clonus is and why people with MS experience it 

→ The everyday moments it tends to show up (sitting, biking, standing in the shower… sound familiar?) 

→ Simple positioning and movement strategies you can try today to calm the bouncing 

→ Why "just push through it" isn't the answer… and what actually helps

As an MS-specialized physical therapist, I've worked with so many people in The MSing Link community who've felt frustrated, embarrassed, or just plain confused by clonus. You're not alone in this. And there's more you can do about it than you've probably been told.

If your legs have ever shaken in a way that felt impossible to control, this one's for you. You've got this. 🧡

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

Ever feel like you're getting stronger… but your walking, your balance, your daily movement just isn't catching up? You're not imagining it. And you're definitely not alone.

In this episode, I'm breaking down one of the most common frustrations I hear from people with multiple sclerosis (MS): you're putting in the work — biking, lifting, going to physical therapy — but it's not translating to the things that actually matter in your day. Walking to the mailbox. Standing up from a chair without plopping. Getting through the grocery store without your legs giving out.

Here's the missing piece: functional exercise.

I'll walk you through what functional exercise actually means, why it matters so much for people with MS, and how to take a big goal (like walking more steadily) and break it down into smaller, specific movements your body can actually practice and improve. This is the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles — and it's what makes the difference between getting stronger on paper and feeling stronger in real life.

You'll walk away with:

→ A clearer understanding of why traditional exercise often falls short for people with MS 

→ How to identify the specific movements you want to improve 

→ Practical ways to build strength that actually shows up in your daily life

Whether you're newly diagnosed or you've been living with MS for years, this one's for you. Your movement still counts — and there's a smarter way to make it count more.

You've got this. 🧡

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Dr. Gretchen Hawley’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DoctorGretchenHawley

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this solo episode, I'm getting into one of the most common (and most misunderstood) multiple sclerosis symptoms… MS spasticity.

If your legs feel heavy, your muscles lock up, or you've been told it's "just tightness"… this one is for you.

I'll walk you through what spasticity actually is, what's happening in your body when it shows up, and why it can have such a big impact on your daily life and mobility. 

We'll cover:

→ The Modified Ashworth Scale (and what those numbers really mean) 

→ The difference between spasms, cramps, and true spasticity 

→ Common triggers like fatigue, infection, heat, and stress 

→ What actually helps… including physical therapy-based strategies, stretching, medications, and the latest research on cannabis and electrical stimulation

Press play and let's get into it.

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

If MS has ever made your toe catch on the carpet, or you've felt that frustrating slap of your foot hitting the floor before you meant it to… this episode is for you. I'm walking you through what foot drop actually is, why it happens with multiple sclerosis (MS), and how it shows up in your walking and your fall risk.

As an MS-specialized physical therapist, I'm breaking down the most common causes I see in my members — weakness in the ankle muscles, tight calves, sensory changes, and limited ankle range of motion. Each one matters, and each one responds to a slightly different approach.

You'll learn specific exercises to strengthen the right muscles, stretches that actually move the needle, and sensory tools that help reconnect the connection between your brain and your foot. I'm also covering the products people ask me about all the time — insoles, AFOs (ankle-foot orthoses), and electrical stimulation, and how to know which might be a good fit for you.

Here's the piece most people miss… supportive devices work best when they're paired with the right strength work. One without the other leaves progress on the table. I'll show you how to combine them so the changes you're working for actually stick.

Whether you're trying to trip less, walk further, or just feel steadier on your feet, this one's packed with practical, MS-specific guidance you can start using today. You've got this. 🧡

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Cadence shoes - Use code DRGRETCHEN10 for a 10% discount

The MSing Link Episode 271, Toe Exercises for MS: Improve Balance, Foot Drop & Walking - Apple Podcast || Spotify

The MSing Link Episode 280, - Apple Podcast || Spotify

The MSing Link Online Program - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 continuing the conversation on neuroplasticity. Or, the way I like to explain it, the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles.

Here's the thing: your brain can keep adapting and building new pathways, even if you've been living with MS for years. That's not wishful thinking. That's real, and it's research-backed.

We'll talk through:

• What neuroplasticity actually is (in plain English, I promise)
• The MS-specific, functional exercises that help you build strength where it counts
• Why repetition and quality of movement matter more than how long you're working out
• How sleep, nutrition, and mindset quietly shape your MS symptoms day to day
• Simple ways to keep your routine fresh at home so you actually stick with it

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

The MSing Link, Episode 270, Does MS Affect Brain Aging? What the Research Shows with Dr. Kelly Rich - Apple || Spotify

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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

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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 honor of Mother's Day, I'm sharing something I've been sitting with for a while… the real, honest answers to the question, "What do you wish the people in your life understood about living with MS?"

I asked. The MSing Link community answered. And what they shared is something every mom, daughter, sister, and friend with MS deserves to have heard out loud.

We're talking about the fatigue that doesn't go away after a nap. The symptoms no one can see, but you feel every second. The emotional weight of waking up not knowing what your body will do that day. The grief, the guilt, the love, and the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up.

If you have MS, I hope this episode makes you feel a little less alone.

If you love someone with MS, I hope it gives you the words you've been searching for.

Either way, you'll walk away with real language, real stories, and real ways to bridge the gap so the people closest to you can finally start to get it.

Press play. Share it with someone who needs to hear it. And let's keep showing the world what life with MS actually looks like… together. 🧡

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 top five evidence-based balance exercises for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). If you’ve ever felt frustrated by doing balance exercises that don’t translate to real life—like getting out of bed, climbing stairs, or turning around—this episode is for you. 

As a physical therapist and MS specialist, I walk you through practical MS balance training strategies and explain exactly how to perform each exercise safely, even with mobility aids. You’ll learn why traditional balance routines often fall short and discover functional exercise ideas to improve your stability, walking, and confidence in daily activities with MS. 

Join me on The MSing Link Podcast for expert PT tips, actionable balance drills, and straightforward advice to help you thrive with multiple sclerosis and walk better every day!

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

The MSing Link Podcast - Episode 279, MS Balance Tips for Real Life - Apple || Spotify

This episode on YouTube,  Balance Exercises for MS: 5 Moves for Real-Life Stability - YouTube

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 deep into nervous system regulation with Gina Coil, the creator of NeuroScenes, guided audio experiences designed to help you calm your nervous system, even when you're living with multiple sclerosis (MS) or other chronic conditions. If you've ever tried traditional meditation during an MS flare or when fatigue hits hard and found it just doesn't work, you're not alone. That's exactly why Gina created something different.

We'll talk about what Neuro Scenes actually are, how guided visualization and sensory techniques can make nervous system regulation feel easier and more restorative, and why calming your nervous system can help reduce MS symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing MS for years, this conversation is packed with practical strategies and neuroscience-backed tools you can start using right away, plus exclusive access to Gina's calming audio experiences created specifically for the MS community.

About Gina Coil:

Gina Coil creates tools for people who are overwhelmed and still have to keep living their lives. Her work exists for real moments. The ones where things feel heavy, confusing, or mentally exhausting, and you don’t have the energy to read a whole book, follow a long program, or figure out what’s “wrong” with you.

Gina is deeply interested in how the human brain and nervous system actually function under stress, not how they function when life is calm and ideal. She believes that when someone is struggling, more information usually isn’t what helps first. Feeling a little better is.

NeuroScenes grew out of that belief and her own lived experience. They are guided, imagination‑based experiences designed to help the nervous system regulate in real time, without pressure, performance, or fixing.

Gina meets people where they are and helps things feel more manageable first.

Connect with Gina:
Website: www.ginacoil.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18UG5RQqri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colorfullivingwithgina
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@colorfullivingwithgina?_t=ZP-8uIC7VjKMe7&_r=1
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@colorfullivingwithginacoil?si=Y-z1b3I8QWZnJ-NY

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 a product review of five popular tools and devices commonly mentioned for managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms—vibration plates, Bioness L300 (and other functional electrical stimulation devices), red light therapy, the Pulse device, and Restural foot pad. I break down the evidence behind each product, share my perspective as an MS-specialized physical therapist, and offer expert tips to help you decide what could truly support your MS mobility, walking, and strength goals. 

Resources Mentioned In This Episode: 

The MSing Link Episode 165, Red Light Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis w/ Dr. Alyson Evans - Spotify | Apple

The MSing Link Episode 243, MS Red Light Therapy for Nerve Repair & Inflammation – Chiropractor + PhD Explains - Spotify | Apple

The MSing Link Episode 273, Ankle Braces vs AFOs for MS: What’s the Difference? - Spotify | Apple

The MSing Link Episode 274, Fake MS Cures on Social Media: How to Tell What’s Real vs. AI Hype - Spotify | Apple

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 tackling a topic that frustrates so many of us living with multiple sclerosis (MS): balance training! As an MS-specialized physical therapist and founder of the MSing Link, I break down why traditional balance exercises like tandem stance, feet together, and wobble boards often don’t help with real-life activities—like getting dressed, walking on uneven surfaces, or turning your head. 

Instead, I share evidence-based, functional balance exercises that are proven to improve mobility, strength, and confidence in day-to-day life. If you want to discover practical strategies, MS exercises, and personalized tools to tackle balance challenges, this episode is for you! 

Resources Mentioned In This Episode: 

The MSing Link Online Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 share a personal story about falling down the stairs while seven months pregnant, and how my experience relates closely to what so many living with multiple sclerosis (MS) go through when working to get stronger and walk better. 

We explore the gate control theory of pain and discuss why new symptoms can pop up during MS exercise routines—and how this often signals progress, not setbacks. 

If you’ve ever felt discouraged by changing MS symptoms, tune in for expert insights, practical strategies, and encouragement tailored for your journey. I offer actionable MS exercises, tips for walking better, and guidance for overcoming mobility challenges. Join me as we peel back the layers of MS to empower your quality of life!

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 give you a special sneak peek inside The MSing Link with a Q&A session pulled directly from our exclusive member calls! You’ll hear real questions from our MSing Link community—on topics like walking challenges, leg weakness, use of mobility aids, pain management, muscle strength, neuroplasticity, and more—as I offer practical, actionable solutions you can implement today. 

This episode is packed with MS-specific exercises, strategies to boost balance and strength, honest product reviews, and the supportive energy of our incredible community. 

If you’ve been curious about what The MSing Link membership is really like, this Q&A episode is your chance to experience the expert guidance, hope, and camaraderie we share each month. Whether you’re navigating MS mobility issues, seeking advice on new therapies, or wanting to get stronger and feel more confident in daily life, these tips are for you!

Resources mentioned in the episode:

The MSing Link - https://www.drgretchenhawley.com/the-msing-link-program

Bop It - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09JDMZ8X4?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_V0YPFCHEYEVDMTZ0XGJE

Zeen - https://gozeen.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoofebcqRgVj4ZN5gTNtCrFAq7ak0-uSWeGI5o_PIW6ORI5rUJKM

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 interview my business coach, Kelsea Koenreich, who specializes in neuroplasticity for mindset. Together, we explore how to rewire your brain to overcome negative patterns, build resilience, and empower yourself on your journey with multiple sclerosis (MS). 

Kelsea shares practical strategies for challenging unhelpful thoughts, asking for support, and embracing change—tools that can make a real difference for those of us living with MS or any chronic illness. 

You’ll learn actionable methods for improving your mental strength, mobility, energy, and independence using research-driven neuroplasticity techniques. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with evidence-based MS tips, mindset exercises, and expert advice to boost your confidence and quality of life with MS!

About Kelsea Koenreich:

Kelsea Koenreich is a business coach for female entrepreneurs.  She is my business coach. One of the things that Kelsea specializes in 9s neuroplasticity for mindset. So things like how we can literally rewire our brains through the thoughts that we choose, the questions that we ask ourselves, and the actions that we take. 

And while my focus is neuroplasticity for movement and strength and mobility, hers is neuroplasticity for how we respond to life's challenges.

So whether you are navigating a chronic illness or dealing with physical limitations or just feeling stuck in negative thought patterns, the work that Kelsea does applies to all of us because at the core, we are all humans facing change and loss and the need to adapt.

Connect with Kelsea:
Website: https://www.kelseakoenreich.com/
The Mom Founders Table Podcast: https://www.kelseakoenreich.com/mom-founders-table
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelseakoenreich/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 breaking down one of the most common mobility challenges my clients with multiple sclerosis face: stair climbing. As a physical therapist specializing in MS, I know how tricky going up and down stairs can be—so I’m sharing practical strategies, exercises, and my top tips for building leg strength and confidence.

Tune in to learn evidence-based MS stair climbing techniques, tricks of the trade, and actionable exercises you can start today for safer, smoother steps. Whether you’re looking for MS exercise routines, stair climbing tips, or ways to prevent trips and falls, this episode is packed with resources!

Join me as we explore proven tools to help you walk better, improve balance, and feel empowered living with MS!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The MSing Link Episode 266, Knee Bending Exercises for MS: Strengthen Hamstrings & Release Tightness - Apple Podcast || Spotify

The MSing Link YouTube Video, Knee Bending Exercises for MS: Strengthen Hamstrings & Release Tightness | MS Physical Therapy - YouTube

The MSing Link YouTube Video, How to Climb Stairs with MS: Exercises to Make You Stronger with Stairs | MS Physical Therapy Tips - YouTube

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 tackle the important topic of fake MS cures circulating on social media and give you practical strategies to spot what’s real versus AI hype. 

As a physical therapist specializing in multiple sclerosis, I break down the red and green flags in MS treatment posts, discuss the dangers of misinformation, and share my top resources for fact-checking new therapies or “miracle” cures. 

Whether you’re looking for credible MS treatment updates, research-backed mobility tips, or guidance on evaluating social media claims, this episode will help empower your journey and protect your hope. Tune in for insights, exercises, and expert advice designed to support your strength and independence with MS!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

ClinicalTrials.gov: https://clinicaltrials.gov/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 dive deep into everything you need to know about AFOs (ankle foot orthoses) and ankle braces for multiple sclerosis (MS). 

As a physical therapist specializing in MS, I answer your most common questions about foot drop solutions, the difference between custom and off-the-shelf AFOs, a few popular brands, and the truth behind certain marketing claims. 

Learn how to use these mobility aids strategically to stay safe, minimize weakness, and optimize your walking ability. 

Plus, I share a few evidence-based exercises proven to strengthen your ankles and help you maintain independence. 

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with MS for years, this episode is packed with tips, MS-friendly tools, and actionable strategies for improving strength, mobility, and quality of life.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The MSing Link Book, eBook, and audiobook: Click to purchase

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 breaking down one of the most common questions I hear as an MS specialist: “Why can I walk better indoors than outdoors when I have multiple sclerosis?” 

If you’ve noticed your MS symptoms make walking outside harder—think struggles with balance, strength, or heat sensitivity—you’re not alone! I’ll cover the main reasons this happens, including the impact of temperature, unpredictable outdoor surfaces, and even how your brain adapts to new environments. 

Most importantly, I’ll share practical MS exercises, strategies, and tools to help you safely improve your outdoor walking ability and boost independence. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed with MS or have been living with it for years, you’ll find actionable advice, encouragement, and new ways to transform your daily mobility. Tune in for expert MS physical therapy tips, outdoor exercise strategies, and tools to walk better with MS!

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 diving into the surprising importance of toe movement for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Discover why toe mobility matters for improving balance, reducing foot drop, and boosting overall mobility. 

I share practical toe exercises, strengthening strategies, and tips to help you regain confidence in your daily activities. Whether you’re dealing with relapsing-remitting or progressive MS, these targeted exercises can make a real difference in walking strength and MS symptom management. 

Tune in for friendly, expert advice—plus insights into how our online MS wellness program, The MSing Link, supports your journey toward better movement. Empower your MS journey with actionable tools, evidence-based PT strategies, and a supportive community dedicated to improving quality of life for those with multiple sclerosis.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Naboso website - naboso.com Discount Code: DRGRETCHEN10 for 10% off

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 welcome Dr. Kelly Rich, neuroscientist at Harvard Medical School, for a deep dive into how multiple sclerosis (MS) might accelerate brain aging—and what the latest research reveals. 

We explore the connection between MS, cellular aging, and innovative new therapies like cellular reprogramming that could help protect and rejuvenate your nervous system. Dr. Rich shares practical insights on supporting brain health, resilience, and ways to slow neurological decline. 

Whether you’re looking to reduce MS fatigue, improve mobility, or boost your cognition, this episode is packed with expert advice, empowering exercises, and actionable tools for living better with MS. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on MS treatments, neuroscience, anti-inflammatory strategies, and hope for future breakthroughs in MS care!

About Dr. Kelly Rich:

 Dr. Kelly Rich, a neuroscientist and clinical genetic counselor at Harvard Medical School, who works in Dr. David Sinclair's lab studying how aging affects our nervous system at the cellular level.

Connect with Dr. Kelly Rich:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyrichphd

Connect with the Sinclair Lab:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sinclair_lab
Website: https://sinclair.hms.harvard.edu/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnPtOlP1oSYiX1wyDKp-8TxE5-kbY81__aH1AWVU_qn2JJGn-dihYq4uHn6Wg_aem_7n-6t_jlL2A68qgb0q7bVA
Lifespan with Dr. David Sinclair Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifespan-with-dr-david-sinclair/id1601709306

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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/@RockTapeGoStrongerLonger
Movement Advocate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themovementadvocate/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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/evensoitiswell
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evensoitiswell/
Newsletter: https://evensoitiswell.subscribemenow.com/
Email: vickie.hadge@evensoitiswell.com

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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/join
The 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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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: mountpleasant@thewellnessway.com\
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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 Ashley Knapp, infusion nurse and co-founder of Local Infusion, to discuss how ambulatory infusion centers are revolutionizing MS treatment. 

We explore why infusions for multiple sclerosis (MS) are often easier, more affordable, and more comfortable when done at outpatient infusion centers compared to hospitals. 

Ashley shares expert insights on gaining faster access to MS infusion therapies like Tysabri, Ocrevus, and Briumvi, plus how Local Infusion is setting up possibilities for overcoming common barriers like transportation and insurance authorizations. 

If you’re seeking practical strategies to improve your MS care, reduce costs, and enjoy a better patient experience, this episode is packed with resources to empower your MS journey, boost your quality of life, and help you stay consistent with your treatment!

About Ashley Knapp:

 Ashley Knapp is co-founder of Local Infusion and a registered nurse with over 13 years of experience in the infusion industry.

Ashley started her career as an infusion nurse, specifically caring for patients with multiple sclerosis, and has since built local infusion into a rapidly expanding network of over 30 ambulatory infusion centers across nine states.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Getting Started with Local Infusion: https://mylocalinfusion.com/get-started/

Connect with Ashley:

Website: https://mylocalinfusion.com/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 excited to share four research-backed strategies for building endurance and stamina with multiple sclerosis (MS). 

As a physical therapist specializing in MS, I get asked daily how to improve mobility, strength, energy, and independence—without making fatigue worse. I’ll walk you through evidence-based exercise tips, practical tools, and recent MS research so you can feel confident and empowered on your wellness journey. 

Whether your MS goal is to walk farther, stand longer, or simply move more without exhausting yourself, you’ll learn actionable steps to boost your stamina and daily function. Join me for expert advice, real-life success stories, and guidance you can use right away to take control of your MS symptoms and improve your quality of life!

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 chat with Aubre Fox, an interior designer with over 16 years of experience specializing in accessible and aging-in-place home design for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other disabilities. 

We discuss practical MS home modifications that don’t look medical, including stylish bathroom safety tips, ways to address fatigue and balance issues, and smart accessible design solutions for daily living. Aubre shares expert advice on making homes safer, more functional, and beautiful—covering everything from wider doorways and consistent flooring to the importance of planning ahead for changing mobility needs. What I love about Aubre’s approach is that she truly understands that thoughtful design should adapt to your needs and enhance your quality of life at every stage, which is exactly what we need when living with the unpredictability of multiple sclerosis. And the difference between accessible design that screens medical equipment versus solutions that actually look stylish and feel like home.

Whether you’re looking to improve independence, reduce fall risk, or simply make everyday tasks easier, this episode is packed with accessible home design tips to support your MS symptoms and quality of life!

About Aubre:

Aubre Fox, an interior designer with 16 years of experience who specializes in something that is incredibly relevant for our MS community, aging in place and accessible design. 

Aubre has her bachelor's degree in interior design and has worked extensively across both commercial and residential spaces. But what makes her particularly valuable for our conversation is her deep experience working with homeowners, living with various diseases and disabilities to create spaces that are both safe and beautiful.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Checklist: https://www.afoxinteriors.com/msinglink

Link to book consult for MSing Link listeners: https://aubrefox.next.mydomastudio.com/store/ConsultationServices/MsingLinkConsultationPackage-PodcastListeners--1758236157

Connect with Aubre:

Website: https://www.afoxinteriors.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.fox_interiors/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 sharing a personal story of powerful mindset shifts that’s helping me navigate a busy, full-plate season. I pull back the curtain on some exciting changes happening behind the scenes with the MSing Link. 

Join me as I discuss how choosing calm and shifting focus can improve how you manage stress, fatigue, and overwhelm, whether your challenges are MS-related or not.

We’ll dive into practical strategies for building resilience and emotional strength, while I pull back the curtain on some exciting changes happening behind the scenes at The MSing Link.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The MSing Link, Episode 107, Journaling to Uncover Your True Voice - Apple Podcast | Spotify

The MSing Link, Episode 237, How to Reduce Performance Anxiety with MS with Samantha Hawley - Apple Podcast | Spotify

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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. Burhan Chaudhry, MS neurologist and clinical lead at Bristol Myers Squibb, to discuss CAR-T cell therapy which is an innovative treatment currently enrolling in clinical trials for multiple sclerosis (MS). 

We dive into how CAR-T cell therapy targets B cells within the central nervous system, offering hope for both relapsing and progressive MS. Dr. Chaudhry explains what sets CAR-T apart from traditional disease modifying therapies, how to get involved in MS clinical trials, and what participants can expect throughout the process. 

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or living with MS for years, join us for empowering strategies, expert advice, and the latest updates on breakthroughs in MS treatment!

Bio on Burhan Chaudry: 

Dr. Burhan Chaudhry is a MS neurologist and clinical lead at Bristol Myers Squibb. His sister was diagnosed with MS when he was in medical school. This inspired him to pursue Neurology. A few years after Burhan was diagnosed with MS as well. After becoming a MS neurologist, Burhan has treated MS patients both in the US and internationally. He is currently clinical lead for a global clinical trial evaluating a novel cell therapy across the MS spectrum. 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Website to view CAR-T info: https://www.cartautoimmune.com/

ECTRIMS 2025 Results/Report: https://distribute.congrex.com/from.storage?image=rqetJOF1YXChDh_STAPoNpjPhysyG76sohBKnHJhR-TsF3Mvxzx13zdmic5t9umH0

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 solo episode, I’m sharing my personal 7-year journey with Hashimoto’s—covering symptoms, testing, and what actually helped me feel better, even alongside my work with multiple sclerosis (MS). 

I dive into the ups and downs of being gluten free, navigating food sensitivities, and discovering the critical role of gut health in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s and MS. If you’ve ever wondered how nutrition and leaky gut can impact your fatigue, energy, mobility, and overall quality of life with MS, this episode is for you. 

I’ll walk you through the step-by-step testing I did (including the important anti-TPO blood test for thyroid autoimmunity), diet strategies, my own personal story with practitioners, and how to advocate for yourself with your healthcare team. 

Tune in for research-backed, real-life tips to help you manage MS symptoms, support thyroid health, and feel empowered in your wellness journey.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Gretchen's blog post on Gluten Free Recipes: https://www.drgretchenhawley.com/blog/gluten-free-for-ms

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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 dive into a hot topic: should you exercise to muscle failure if you have multiple sclerosis (MS)? 

Drawing from the latest research and my 12+ years as a physical therapist specializing in MS, I break down the difference between muscle fatigue and muscle failure, and share evidence-based recommendations for safe and effective strength training. 

We talk about the importance of rest, proper exercise form, and how to adapt resistance training for people with MS so you can boost strength, walking ability, and functional independence—without risking injury or worsening fatigue. 

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a seasoned MS warrior, you’ll get practical strategies and MS-specific exercises to help you move better, feel stronger, and improve your quality of life. Tune in for empowering insights and actionable tips grounded in MS rehabilitation research!

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com 

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