Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

Getting an MS diagnosis can be straightforward for some people, but for many it’s a long, confusing journey filled with uncertainty. In this episode, we explore one of the questions the MS Trust is asked most often: How is MS actually diagnosed?

We look at why diagnosis can take time, what tests are involved, why symptoms aren’t always obvious, and what happens when tests give unclear results.

We’re joined by Professor Alasdair Coles, neurologist and MS specialist, who guides us through the current diagnosis process from first symptoms to MRIs, lumbar punctures, evoked potentials, OCT scans, and what will happen after the point of diagnosis.

Episode notes

• How MS is diagnosed - info from the MS Trust
• Lumbar puncture  - info from the MS Trust
• Evoked potentials - info from the MS Trust
• McDonald criteria - info from the MS Trust
• Disease modifying drugs (DMDs) - info from the MS Trust
• Limbo land - what you can do while you wait for an MS diagnosis - MS Trust podcast
• Wellbeing and MS - information hub to help you support your emotional wellbeing

Video resources from MS Trust

• What happens in a Neurological examination?
• What is a Lumbar Puncture?
• What is an Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) test?

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

Living with persistent MS-related pain isn’t just a physical challenge it can take a big toll on your emotional wellbeing and mental health too. In this episode, we explore the psychological impact of chronic pain.

We are joined by Dr Phillip Simpson, Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of NHS experience, and Heather Daly, who shares her personal journey of living with MS and chronic pain, as we explore topics such as

• What chronic pain really means and how it affects the mind
• The emotional challenges of living with persistent MS pain
• How psychological therapies such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness can help
• Practical coping strategies, acceptance, and behaviour change techniques

If you are living with long term MS and what to explore different approaches to cope with it psychologically, this is the episode for you

Episode notes

• Pain and MS - info from the MS Trust
• Treating nerve pain in MS  - info from the MS Trust
• Pain resources - info from the MS Trust
• Mindfulness and MS - info from the MS Trust
• Wellbeing and MS - information hub to help you support your emotional wellbeing

Resources mentioned by Dr Phil Simpson 

livewellwithpain.co.uk -  website with resources and information

paintoolkit.org - focused on self management and has been created by an expert by experience 

flippinpain.co.uk-  focused on challenging misconceptions about pain problems.

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

In this special bonus episode of the MS Trust Podcast, mindfulness teacher Justin Standfield shares two guided meditations designed to help ease the challenges of living with MS pain. You’ll hear a shorter practice for pain awareness and relief, plus a longer meditation created especially for chronic pain. These two meditations can offer practical tools to bring comfort and calm whenever pain feels overwhelming.

Episode notes

• Pain and MS - info from the MS Trust
• Treating nerve pain in MS  - info from the MS Trust
• Pain resources - info from the MS Trust
• Mindfulness and MS - info from the MS Trust
• Wellbeing and MS - information hub to help you support your emotional wellbeing
• MS and mindfulness with Justin Standfield - Video with Justin from MS Trust's YouTube
• Can mindfulness really help with my MS? - podcast from the MS Trust with Justin

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

Neuropathic pain or nerve pain is one of the most challenging symptoms of MS, unpredictable, intrusive, and often invisible. In this episode, we focus on what people can do themselves, at home, to ease that pain and take back some control. We talk to lead pain specialist nurse Katherine Dyer and mindfulness teacher Justin Standfield who share practical strategies and calming techniques that can make a real difference. We also meet the MS Trust helpline team and learn more about the vital support they provide to people affected by MS.

Episode notes:

Episode notes

• Pain and MS - info from the MS Trust
• Treating nerve pain in MS  - info from the MS Trust
• Pain resources - info from the MS Trust
• Mindfulness and MS - info from the MS Trust
• Wellbeing and MS - information hub to help you support your emotional wellbeing
• MS and mindfulness with Justin Standfield - Video with Justin from MS Trust's YouTube
• Donate to MS Trust helpline - info from the MS Trust 

A selection mindfulness apps (not reviewed or endorsed by the MS Trust)

• Headspace
• Calm
• Insight Timer

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

In this episode we explore the biggest breakthroughs from ECTRIMS 2025, the world’s largest MS research conference. We look into new treatment insights, the push for inclusive research, and how people with MS can shape the future of care.

Featuring Brett Drummond from MS translate, Natalie Busari from The Nerve of My MS, Dr. Claire Winchester research and engagement, at MS Trust , and Lucy Taylor our MS Trust CEO

Episode notes

• ECTRIMS 2025 news round-up - news from the MS Trust
• Criteria used to diagnose MS updated  - news from the MS Trust
• ECTRIMS patient Community - video recordings from the day
• MS and Cognition - info from MS Trust
• Diet and MS - info from MS Trust
• Leave a gift in your will -  info from MS Trust
• MS Trust new strategy - info from MS Trust
• The Nerve of My Multiples Sclerosis - Natalie Busari Instagram  

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

In this episode of the MS Trust Podcast, we explore the MS Hug—one of the most confusing and uncomfortable symptoms of multiple sclerosis. From tight banding and rib cramps to stitch-like pain and breathlessness, we unpack what it feels like, why it happens, and how to manage it. Neurologist Kate Petheram joins us to explain the science behind the symptom, and we hear from people living with MS who share their personal experiences and tips for coping with this unwelcome embrace.

Episode Notes

The MS Hug - info from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/ms-hug 

MS Pain - info from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/pain

Stream for MS - Fundraising challenge from MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising-and-events/ms-trust-exclusives/streamforms

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

If you live with multiple sclerosis and struggle to get a good night sleep, this episode is for you. We uncover the hidden impact of night-time MS symptoms—from nerve pain, spasms, and restless legs to bladder urgency, burning sensations, and cold feet—and explore why these issues often seem to worsen after dark.

Featuring insights from Associate Professor Rod Middleton from the UK MS Register and practical advice from Clinical Associate Professor & Honorary Consultant in Rehabilitation Laura Edwards, try to we answer your questions and share strategies to ease those night time symptoms symptom. 

 Episode Notes

Night time symptoms - information from The MS Trust: https://mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/night-symptoms-and-ms

Sleep and MS - information from The MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/sleep 

Focus on sleep problems - information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/focus-sleep-problems-ms  

Sleep and MS podcast - podcast from MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/sleep-problems-ms

Heat sensitivity and MS - podcast from MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/heat-sensitivity-and-ms

Why do you keep needing to get up to go to the loo during the night? - information from The MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/news/why-do-you-keep-needing-get-go-loo-during-night

UK MS register: ukmsregister.org

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

Worried about falling or unsure what to do if you do fall? You're not alone. Falls are a common concern for people living with multiple sclerosis.

In this episode, expert physio Hilary Gunn breaks down why people with MS are more prone to falling. Discover how to spot the early warning signs and learn what steps to take if a fall occurs. We also delve into simple, effective strategies to build strength, boost confidence, and help you keep moving safely with MS.

 Listen now to hear real life stories, expert information and more.

Donate to the MS Trust to support this podcast - donate.mstrust.org.uk

Episode notes

Falls mstrust.org.uk/a-z/falls - information from MS Trust

Balance mstrust.org.uk/a-z/balance  - information from MS Trust

Will asks the expert about balance and dizziness mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/will-asks-expert-about-balance-and-dizziness - podcast from MS Trust

Functional exercises to support everyday tasks
mstrust.org.uk/information-support/exercise-ms/exercises-support-everyday-tasks - workout videos to help with getting up from the floor and balance 

Before beginning any new exercise or activity, please consult with your GP or MS care team. If you experience pain or discomfort, stop immediately and speak to your physiotherapist. Always listen to your body and make choices that are right for you.

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

Relationships can be complicated, even at the best of times.  When one partner is living with MS, it can bring a whole host of new challenges as well as opportunities for deeper connection.

In this podcast, we explore the emotional and practical realities of supporting a partner with MS, and how couples can support each other through changing dynamics.

Psychologist Dr Ashley Brown joins us to share practical advice on how to open up conversations around intimacy, emotional support, and shifting roles in a relationship. She offers tips to help both partners feel heard, valued, and connected.

We also hear from Sophie and Delvin, a couple living with MS. Sophie shares her experience of living with multiple sclerosis, while Delvin reflects on his role as the partner who supports her.

Together, they speak honestly about how their relationship has evolved, the challenges they’ve faced, and the ways their bond has strengthened.

If you live with MS or support someone in their journey, this podcast offers practical tips, shared experiences and re-assurance that you’re not alone.

 Listen now to hear real life stories, expert information and more.

Donate to the MS Trust to support this podcast - donate.mstrust.org.uk 

Episode notes

Supporting someone with MS - information for carers - information from the MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/information-support/care-and-carers/information-for-carers

Caring for someone with MS - Podcast from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/caring-someone-ms

Anxiety and MS mstrust.org.uk/a-z/anxiety 

Relationships and MS  mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/relationships-and-ms 

MS and your emotions: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/ms-and-your-emotions

Advance care planning - information from the MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/a-z/advance-care-planning

www.relate.org.uk a uk counselling service 

www.gottman.com a website that offers a service designed to help couples overcome relationship challenges and enhance their communication

www.cosrt.org.uk UK’s professional body dedicated to Psychosexual and Relationship Therapies

Send us a message about the podcast. For questions about MS please contact our helpline 0800 032 38 39

Spasticity and spasms are common MS symptoms that vary from person to person and can be challenging to understand and manage.  

In this episode, we explore how these symptoms can feel with the help of our MS community and what you can do about them.  

We asked MS specialist physiotherapist Wendy Hendrie to share her near 40 years of experience with us.  

We are very glad we did, because we learned such a huge amount. In fact, so much so that we can almost guarantee you will too in the next hour.  

And this know-how could make a real difference to the way you understand and approach your spasticity and spasms.  

She breaks these complex symptoms down in a way that’s easy to follow. She explores trigger factors, including pain – even pain you can’t feel due to loss of sensation – bladder and bowels, posture and positioning including pelvis alignment and head movement. Plus exercise, night spasms and the importance of getting medication reviews especially if you haven’t seen your MS team in a while.

Episode notes

• Spasticity and spasms - MS Trust information
• What do MS spasticity and muscle spasms feel like? - MS Trust information
• Managing spasticity and spasms - MS Trust information
• Download or order our free book on Managing spasticity and spasms - MS Trust information
• Learn what may be triggering your spasticity and spasms
• Thrower B et al.
  Recognition, Description, and Variability of Spasticity in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis and Potential Barriers to Clinician-Patient Dialogue: Results From SEEN-MSS, a Large-Scale, Self-Reported Survey
  International Journal of MS Care. 2024; 26 (2): 75-80
  Summary
• Peer support: join our MS Trust Facebook community (public group)
• Peer support: join our Advanced MS Care and Support Facebook community (private group) 
• Spoon theory explanation video