Managing & Treating MS
Page Guide
MS Care & Treatment
Managing Multiple Sclerosis (MS) requires a holistic, personalised approach that combines medical treatments, symptom management, and healthy lifestyle choices.
Advances in MS care mean that people living with MS have more options than ever before to reduce relapses, slow disease progression, and improve their quality of life. This section introduces the key elements of MS management and treatment, with links to in-depth pages for each topic.
Disease-Modifying Therapies
Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs) are at the forefront of MS treatment. These medications work by targeting the immune system to reduce inflammation, decrease the number and severity of relapses, and slow the progression of disability.
Early and ongoing use of DMTs, particularly for relapsing-remitting MS, is now recognised as best practice to help preserve brain health and function.
Symptom Management
While DMTs help control the underlying disease, managing symptoms is essential for maintaining daily wellbeing and independence.
MS symptoms can include fatigue, pain, spasticity, bladder and bowel issues, cognitive changes, and more. Effective symptom management may involve medication, rehabilitation therapies, practical aids, and emotional support. The goal is to minimise the impact of symptoms and help you live your best life.
Living Well With MS
Living well with MS means making choices that support your overall health, brain function, and emotional wellbeing. Research shows that lifestyle factors-such as exercise, diet, not smoking, and managing stress-can help slow progression, reduce symptom severity, and improve quality of life. Staying connected with support networks and engaging in meaningful activities are also important for resilience and mental health.
Advanced and Complementary Therapies
Stem Cell Transplant
Autologous Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (aHSCT) is an intensive treatment that aims to “reset” the immune system.
For some people with highly active, treatment-resistant relapsing MS, aHSCT has shown greater effectiveness than conventional DMTs in halting disease activity and improving disability. However, it is not routinely available in New Zealand and involves significant risks and costs.
Medicinal Cannabis
Pharmaceutical-grade medicinal cannabis (such as Sativex®) may be prescribed for MS-related spasticity when other treatments have not worked.
Evidence for pain relief is emerging, but access and funding are limited in New Zealand. Always discuss potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.
Symptom Information & Resources
MSNZ provides a comprehensive library of information sheets and booklets on managing specific MS symptoms, including fatigue, pain, spasticity, bladder and bowel issues, cognitive changes, and more.
Each symptom page offers practical tips and links to downloadable resources.
Explore Key Topics
Below are the key areas of MS management and treatment you can explore further:
MS Treatments
There is currently no cure for MS, but a range of treatments are available to help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, and slow disease progression. The best treatment plan is tailored to each individual and may include DMTs, symptom management strategies, rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes.
Stem Cell Transplant
Stem cell therapy-specifically autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT)-is an emerging treatment for people with highly active, treatment-resistant MS. aHSCT aims to “reset” the immune system and can lead to significant improvements for some, but it is not without risks and is not routinely available in New Zealand.
MS Brain Health
MS Brain Health is an international initiative focused on maximising lifelong brain health for people with MS. It emphasises early diagnosis, prompt treatment, regular monitoring, and healthy lifestyle choices to preserve brain and cognitive function.
Diet and Nutrition
Exercise
Smoking and MS
Medicinal Cannabis
Medicinal cannabis may help some people with MS manage symptoms such as pain and spasticity, but it should only be used under medical supervision. Access in New Zealand is limited to specific approved products and requires a prescription.
Symptoms
Your Next Steps
Work with your MS team
Develop a personalised treatment and management plan.
Stay proactive
Early intervention and ongoing monitoring are key to slowing progression and preserving brain health.
Explore lifestyle strategies
For living well with MS-diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, and social support all matter.
Access support
Regional MS Societies, online resources, and support groups can help you navigate challenges and connect with others.