Spasticity solutions – practical strategies

Monday 28 July at 4pm GMT

Join live or on demand

Go to our portal area to register to join the classes live or to watch the recording

The suggested donation for this session is £7

Join us for the third session in our series with Dr Gretchen Hawley, a physical therapist and MS specialist, as we take a closer look at spasticity, a common and often misunderstood symptom of MS. In this session, Dr Hawley will help you understand what spasticity is, how it differs from muscle tightness and spasms, and how regular, targeted stretching can play a vital role in managing its impact on your daily life.

You’ll learn how to recognise early signs of spasticity, understand which muscle groups are most often affected, and gain practical tools to help improve mobility, reduce discomfort, and support long-term function. Dr Hawley will guide participants through a series of effective stretching techniques that can be incorporated into your routine, with a focus on safety, consistency, and self-empowerment.

What the session will cover

• A clear explanation of the differences between spasticity, tightness, and spasms
• Insight into which muscles are most commonly affected in MS
• Guidance on stretching parameters, how often, how long, and how intensely to stretch for real benefit
• A practical demonstration and guided practice of stretches you can use at home
• Question and answers where you can ask Dr Hawley your questions

To support your understanding, we encourage you to read MS-UK’s information Choices booklet on spasms and spasticity. It provides a helpful introduction to the causes of spasticity, how it can affect daily life, and a range of self-management strategies to help you take control.

This session is suitable for anyone living with MS who is experiencing spasticity, tightness, or mobility challenges or anyone interested in learning more about how movement and stretching can support MS symptom management.

How to book

To join this session, please login or register in our Portal area. The session is free to join if you have a monthly or yearly subscription.

You do not need a subscription to join, as you can register and provide a donation for the class. The suggested amount for the class is £7. If you’re unable to make a donation, please follow the instructions within the portal listing to join us for free.

A recording will be made available on the portal after the session and can be viewed if you have booked a ticket either before or after the session has taken place.

If you would like to know more or you are having trouble registering, please contact us at register@ms-uk.org.