A long-term neurological disorder that affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves is called multiple sclerosis (MS). It develops when immune activity damages myelin, the protective material surrounding nerve fibers. This disruption can slow or block communication between the nervous system and other parts of the body.

The effects of MS vary considerably. Some individuals experience periods when symptoms worsen and then improve, while others notice gradual changes over time. Possible concerns include weakness, numbness, muscle stiffness, vision changes, fatigue, dizziness, balance difficulties, bladder problems, and changes in concentration or memory. MS is not contagious, and its course cannot be predicted solely from a person’s initial symptoms.

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC, Board-Certified Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, can assess how neurological symptoms affect strength, mobility, comfort, and daily function. A detailed evaluation helps determine whether further neurological assessment or supportive care may be appropriate.

Early MS symptoms may involve vision, sensation, movement, or balance, but the specific combination differs among individuals. Some concerns develop gradually, while others appear over several hours or days. Because many medical conditions can produce similar symptoms, these changes do not confirm MS by themselves.

Possible early signs include:

• Blurred or double vision
• Pain during eye movement
• Numbness, tingling, or unusual sensations
• Weakness in an arm or leg
• Muscle stiffness or spasms
• Dizziness or difficulty maintaining balance
• Problems with coordination or walking
• Unexplained fatigue
• Changes in bladder control
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering information

Symptoms that persist, recur, spread, or interfere with normal activities should receive medical attention. At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab, Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, reviews symptom patterns, strength, sensation, reflexes, balance, walking ability, and functional limitations. She can help patients understand whether their concerns require additional neurological evaluation and guide appropriate next steps.

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis remains unknown. MS is considered an immune-mediated condition because immune activity mistakenly attacks myelin and may also damage the nerve fibers beneath it. Researchers believe the condition develops through a complex interaction of genetic susceptibility, immune responses, and environmental influences rather than one identifiable cause.

Factors associated with an increased likelihood of developing MS may include:

• Having a close relative with MS
• Certain genetic variations
• Previous exposure to specific viral infections
• Smoking
• Low vitamin D levels or limited sunlight exposure
• Living in particular geographic regions
• Being female

Possessing one or more risk factors does not mean that a person will develop MS. The condition is not passed down through a simple inheritance pattern. At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, considers medical history, family history, symptoms, and functional changes during an evaluation. Patients with signs suggesting a central nervous system condition may be directed toward appropriate specialist care.

Multiple sclerosis can influence daily life in different ways depending on the areas of the nervous system affected and the severity of symptoms. Some people maintain their usual routines with minor changes, while others experience limitations that affect mobility, work, household responsibilities, social activities, or personal independence. Symptoms may also fluctuate over time.

Daily challenges may include:

• Fatigue that makes tasks harder to complete
• Weakness, stiffness, or spasms affecting movement
• Balance concerns or difficulty walking
• Numbness that interferes with hand or foot control
• Vision disturbances affecting reading or driving
• Problems with memory, attention, or processing information
• Bladder or bowel concerns
• Mood changes, frustration, or reduced confidence
• Individualized support can help patients adapt routines and preserve function.

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab, our skilled team evaluates how symptoms affect movement, comfort, endurance, and independence. Care recommendations may focus on improving function, managing physical limitations, and supporting safer participation in everyday activities.

A medical evaluation should be considered when unexplained neurological symptoms persist, recur, become more severe, or interfere with daily activities. Numbness, weakness, vision changes, balance problems, muscle stiffness, and unusual fatigue have many possible causes, so patients should not assume that MS is responsible without a professional assessment.

Consider scheduling an appointment for:

• Persistent tingling or loss of sensation
• Weakness affecting an arm or leg
• Recurring blurred or double vision
• Pain with eye movement
• Increasing balance or coordination difficulties
• Unexplained falls or walking changes
• Ongoing muscle spasms or stiffness
• New bladder concerns accompanied by neurological symptoms
• Sudden facial drooping, severe weakness, speech difficulty, abrupt vision loss, or an inability to walk requires immediate emergency attention.

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC, Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, can perform a detailed functional and neurological assessment. She reviews the onset and progression of symptoms and helps determine whether specialist evaluation or additional care is needed.

Yes. MS symptoms may improve, worsen, or fluctuate depending on the individual and the areas of the nervous system affected. Some people experience symptom flare-ups followed by periods of recovery, while others notice gradual changes.

Supportive care may focus on managing pain, stiffness, weakness, fatigue, and functional limitations. At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab, Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, evaluates how symptoms affect movement and daily activities to guide personalized recommendations.

Supportive care may focus on managing pain, stiffness, weakness, fatigue, and functional limitations. At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab, Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, evaluates how symptoms affect movement and daily activities to guide personalized recommendations.

Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab offers personalized support for individuals experiencing pain, weakness, stiffness, mobility limitations, or other functional challenges associated with multiple sclerosis. Board-Certified Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, evaluates each patient’s symptoms, medical history, physical abilities, daily limitations, and personal goals before developing individualized recommendations focused on comfort, movement, function, and quality of life.

She monitors how symptoms affect walking, balance, endurance, and everyday activities. Ongoing evaluations allow her to adjust supportive care as needs change and coordinate recommendations with the patient’s broader medical care when appropriate. This patient-centered approach complements neurological management while helping individuals work toward greater independence and improved daily function. At Cape Fear Physical Medicine & Rehab, take the first step towards better management of Multiple Sclerosis today. Our experienced team is here to provide the support and care you need. Contact us or schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward improved symptom control and enhanced quality of life. We are conveniently located at 1540 Purdue Dr, Ste. 200 Fayetteville, NC 28303. We serve patients from Fayetteville NC, Woodfield NC, Hope Mills NC, Fort Bragg NC, Eastover NC, and surrounding areas.