World Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Day 2025 was observed with a strong focus on one of the most critical yet often under-discussed aspects of MS care, rehabilitation. On June 1, 2025, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI), Trivandrum Chapter, in collaboration with leading medical and rehabilitation institutions, hosted an interactive awareness programme titled “Role of Rehabilitation – Interactive Insights” at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Living Well with MS

Multiple Sclerosis is a complex neurological condition that affects movement, balance, speech, cognition, and emotional well-being. Recognising this complexity, the programme highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary rehabilitation, bringing together neurology, physical medicine, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and patient-centred care.

Experts from SCTIMST and the National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (NIPMR) led the sessions, sharing both clinical insights and practical strategies that can significantly improve the quality of life of people living with MS.

Session Highlights: Science Meets Lived Experience

Session 1: The Science Behind MS Rehabilitation
Led by specialists from the Neurology and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation departments at SCTIMST, this session explored advances in MS rehabilitation. Speakers emphasised early diagnosis, sustained therapy, and the role of community-based support systems in enabling long-term functional independence.

Session 2: Patient-Centric Rehabilitation Frameworks
Experts from NIPMR guided discussions on motor function, balance training, speech therapy, fatigue management, and emotional health. A key highlight was the interactive Q&A session, which allowed patients and caregivers to directly engage with professionals—bridging the gap between clinical knowledge and everyday realities.

Key Takeaways from the Programme

• Holistic rehabilitation plays a vital role in improving physical, emotional, and social well-being for people with MS.
• Early intervention and continuity of care are essential for better long-term outcomes.
• Community awareness and accessible rehabilitation services must be strengthened to ensure no one is left behind.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening MS Care in Kerala

The programme reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between medical institutions, rehabilitation specialists, and patient advocacy organisations. Building on this momentum, the MSSI Trivandrum Chapter aims to expand educational initiatives and improve access to rehabilitation services across Kerala—ensuring that people living with MS receive comprehensive, dignified, and sustained care.

Gratitude and Collaboration

The success of the event was made possible through the collective efforts of MSSI, SCTIMST, NIPMR, dedicated experts, patients, caregivers, and volunteers. Their shared commitment underscores a powerful message: rehabilitation is not optional; it is central to living well with MS.