Research on Multiple Sclerosis, 3rd ed.

Research On Multiple Sclerosis, ed 3

By Waksman BH, Reingold SC, Reynolds WE. New York, NY 10010, Demos Publications, 1987 Research On Multiple Sclerosis was supported by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. To help the reader understand the relevance of research on multiple sclerosis (MS), the volume first describes MS as a disease process. The four chapters under this heading are 1) "What is Multiple Sclerosis?" 2) "What is Myelin?" 3) "Who Develops Multiple Sclerosis?" and 4) "Making the Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis." Changes in the nervous system caused by the disease are discussed.

The second component of the book reviews current research. All research, according to the authors, relates to one of the following goals: 1) to prevent the disease entirely, 2) to prevent further damage to the central nervous system, 3) to reverse the damage done, 4) to improve functional abilities of the person afflicted with MS, 5) to provide diagnostic information, and 6) to provide meaningful estimates of disabilities. Summaries appear at the end of each unit. Even with the large amount of material presented, the format of the book makes it easy to read.

Patients with multiple sclerosis, concerned individuals, medical providers, and family members will easily be able to read suggestions for treatment based on current research findings. Cross referencing is provided for easy review. A subject index is included at the end of the book.

The chapter on treatment of persons with MS reports that over 40 treatments are available, but only half of these treatments are based on reasonable considerations. Many treatments seem to have little effect, probably as a result of our lack of understanding of the disease process. The book emphasizes medical intervention with medication. As a physical therapist, I would like to see more research studies done on pacing of exercise and daily activities, types of strengthening (speed, resistance, repetitions), and range-of-motion flexibility (active, passive, active-assistive). Contributory factors of spasms, fatigue, and pain were discussed, but were not associated directly with muscle function.

In closing, this book would be helpful to anyone wishing to gain knowledge about MS. A good, basic anatomical and physiological foundation is presented. The research results are encouraging. With continued research, more answers should be available to assist patients in improving their daily function and, hopefully, to prevent others from developing the disease.