In the UK, tens of thousands of people are living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and among young adults, it is the most common disabling neurological condition.
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| SDO® Sleep Suit in the No. 12 Ultraviolet theme, by Medigarments Ltd |
MS causes an array of negative impacts on health, one of which is affecting the quality of sleep. Several studies have been carried out which looked at the differences in quality of sleep experienced by people with MS and those who do not have the condition but the results have been described as 'inconsistent'.
A research team based in Iran carried out a meta-analysis of published studies into the phenomenon to address this inconsistency. Entitled 'Sleep quality in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis based on Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index', the research was recently published in the respected Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders journal.
A total of 13 studies conducted between the years 2004 and 2022 were included in the meta-analysis, which aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject. These studies collectively represented the experiences of 1,481 individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). In comparison, the analysis also included a control group comprising 2,755 individuals without MS, allowing for meaningful comparisons between the two groups.
The key takeaway from the research was that MS has a definite effect on a person's subjective quality of sleep, defined as their 'individual satisfaction with the sleep experience'. People with MS were found to have a similar quantity of sleep as compared to people without the condition but experienced 'significantly worse sleep quality than their healthy counterparts'.
In all of the analysed studies, a questionnaire known as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to measure subjective sleep satisfaction. Assessing sleep quality across a period of a month, the questionnaire asks respondents a total of 19 questions across several 'sleep components' including duration, disturbance, efficiency and latency. As compared to healthy control subjects, those with MS had a 'significantly higher' PSQI score, which clearly indicates that those with the condition experience a lower quality of sleep than those without.
Sleep disturbances among people with MS are relatively common and happen for a variety of reasons. These can include everything from symptoms of the condition like bladder issues and ongoing pain to side effects from medication. In addition, the nerve damage caused by MS can lead to appreciable alterations in the body's circadian rhythms.
SDO® Sensory Dynamic Orthosis™ compression garments for MS support
As there is currently no known cure for multiple sclerosis (MS), treatment strategies primarily focus on managing the symptoms to improve the quality of life for those affected. This is typically achieved through a combination of medication, physiotherapy, and exercise, all of which aim to reduce the impact of MS on daily functioning. Additionally, many individuals with MS find significant relief through the use of dynamic compression garments, such as those developed, manufactured, and supplied by Medigarments Ltd.
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| SDO® Suit in the No. 14 Starlight theme, by Medigarments Ltd |
Medigarments Ltd. specialises in creating innovative garments using dynamic Lycra®, which has been carefully engineered to offer therapeutic benefits for MS patients. The company’s range of SDO® Sensory Dynamic Orthosis™ garments plays a pivotal role in providing much-needed support to the musculoskeletal system. This support is crucial in assisting with motor learning and neural integration, helping individuals improve their coordination and movement patterns.
The unique design of the SDO® garments has been shown to offer more than just physical support. Studies have demonstrated that wearing these garments can lead to significant therapeutic changes in muscle tone, posture, and overall alignment. By gently compressing the body in a way that enhances sensory feedback, the garments promote improved postural alignment and greater biomechanical advantages, leading to better muscle activation and function. This contributes to an overall improvement in daily functioning, mobility, and the ability to perform tasks that might otherwise be challenging for those living with MS.
With their ability to assist in motor control, increase comfort, and improve physical function, dynamic compression garments like those from Medigarments Ltd. provide an invaluable addition to the broader management of MS, offering a non-invasive and effective way to help patients better manage the symptoms of the condition.
Explore our full range of SDO® dynamic compression garments on the Medigarments Ltd website, where you'll find a diverse selection designed to meet the unique needs of individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other musculoskeletal conditions. Each garment is meticulously crafted using dynamic Lycra® to ensure optimal comfort, support, and therapeutic benefits, helping to enhance mobility, posture, and muscle function.
If you're unsure which product is right for your patient or have questions about how our garments can aid in their symptom management, our experienced and knowledgeable clinical team is ready to assist you. We are committed to providing personalised advice and guidance tailored to your specific needs. Don't hesitate to reach out to our team, whether it's for product recommendations, fitting tips, or general inquiries, simply give us a call, and we'll be happy to help. At Medigarments Ltd, we are dedicated to supporting your patients on their journey to better health and improved quality of life.
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SDO® Original is part of The World of SDO® Sensory Dynamic Orthosis™ range of dynamic Lycra® compression garments by Medigarments Ltd. SDO® and Sensory Dynamic Orthosis™ are trademarks of Medigarments Ltd.
