The MSing Link

Episode

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  297. MS and Pregnancy: What Current Research Says About Medications, Breastfeeding & Safety 12.08.2026 38mnt

   If you're living with MS and wondering whether pregnancy is still on the table for you… this episode is for you. Maybe you just saw two lines on a test and your first thought wasn't joy, it was "what do I do about my medication?" Maybe you're a year out from trying and you want to plan this right. Either way, you deserve real answers, not a shrug. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Christina Chambers, PhD, MPH, a perinatal epidemiologist and professor of pediatrics at UC San Diego. She has spent her career studying what medications and exposures actually do during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and she brought all of it to this conversation about multiple sclerosis (MS) and pregnancy. We covered the questions people with MS ask most, and a few they're often too nervous to ask out loud. Here's what we cover 🔑: What happens to MS symptoms during pregnancy? Many people with MS notice fewer relapses while pregnant, especially later in pregnancy. The working explanation is that pregnancy shifts how the immune system behaves so it doesn't reject the developing baby, and that shift can quiet the immune activity that drives MS relapses.  How do you plan a pregnancy when you have MS? Dr. Chambers walks through the questions worth asking before you start trying, including timing around your current treatment, what "washout" means and why it's different for different medications, and how to build a plan with your neurologist and your OB in the same room instead of getting two answers that don't match. What about MS medication and pregnancy / breastfeeding? This is one of the most common questions we get, and the answer is more nuanced than "yes" or "no." We talk about how researchers actually measure what passes into human milk, why some medications look very different from others in that respect, and how to weigh feeding goals against staying well yourself. What happens to MS after delivery? The postpartum window gets less attention than it should. Research has pointed to an increased relapse risk in the first few months after birth for some people with MS, which is exactly when sleep is shortest and support is thinnest. We talk about planning for that stretch ahead of time rather than reacting to it. How does anyone know any of this is safe? Dr. Chambers explains where pregnancy safety information actually comes from. Pregnant people aren't enrolled in the drug trials that come before approval, so most of what we know is built from observational studies that follow real pregnancies over time. Understanding this helps you read "we don't have enough data yet" for what it is, which is a gap in research, not a warning label. Managing MS symptoms through pregnancy and postpartum. Your body is changing shape, your center of gravity is moving, and your MS symptoms don't pause for any of it. We talk about staying steady and staying strong through it, and why consistent, functional movement matters here just as much as it does the rest of the year. This episode is for you if: ✅ You have MS and you're thinking about getting pregnant ✅ You're pregnant now and you're unsure what to do about your treatment plan ✅ You've been told to "just talk to your doctor" without getting a real answer ✅ You want to breastfeed and you don't know if your medication allows for it ✅ You're planning for the postpartum months and want to know what to expect ✅ You want to understand why the guidance says what it says, not just be handed a rule Having MS doesn't automatically close the door on pregnancy. It means you need better information and a care team that talks to each other. This conversation is a place to start. You've got this. 🧡 About Dr. Christina Chambers.  Dr. Christina Chambers is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine at UC San Diego. She is Chief of the Division of Environmental Science and Health, and Co-Director of the Center for Better Beginnings. She is the principal investigator of MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies, and the UC San Diego Human Milk Research Biorepository, two nation-wide longitudinal cohort studies focused on the safety of medications, vaccines, substances, infectious agents, and other environmental exposures in pregnancy and lactation. Dr. Chambers co-directs the HEALthy Brain and Child Development Study (HBCD), a nationwide research initiative focused on developmental trajectories of children in various environments from prenatal life through 10 years of age. In addition, Dr. Chambers leads research and educational initiatives in the U.S. and internationally on the prevention and treatment of children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. She co-directs the Community Engagement, Dissemination and Implementation unit in the Clinical and Translational Research Institute at UC San Diego which supports clinical research development in diverse populations.   Where to reach Dr. Christina Chambers: MotherToBaby Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MotherToBaby MotherToBaby TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@mothertobabyotis MotherToBaby Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mothertobaby/ MotherToBaby “x”:https://x.com/mothertobaby MotherToBaby LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/mothertobaby MotherToBaby Pinterest:https://www.pinterest.com/mothertobaby/ MotherToBaby YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0O5nm_E_rS8I1BpO-C4eLw MotherToBaby Threads:https://www.threads.net/@mothertobabyotis Organization Website: https://betterbeginnings.org/ Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  
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  296. Why Planning Ahead Can Make Life With MS Feel Easier 05.08.2026 21mnt

  If planning a simple outing with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) feels like juggling way more variables than it used to... this episode is for you. This one's personal. I'm sharing a bit of a reality check from my own life, and walking you through the practical strategies I use (and teach) for planning ahead with MS, so you can move through your day, your week, and even the holidays, with more independence and less second-guessing. Here's what we cover 🔑: Why planning ahead matters more with MS. It's not about being overly cautious. It's about protecting your energy and your confidence so you actually get to enjoy the outing, the trip, or the walk, instead of just surviving it. Dual-tasking (like walking and talking). When MS affects the communication between your brain and your muscles, doing two things at once, like walking while carrying on a conversation, can take more conscious effort than it used to. I'll explain why that happens and how to practice dual-tasking on purpose so it gets easier over time. Choosing the right mobility aid for the day. Canes, walkers, and other supports aren't a sign of giving something up. They're a tool that can help you conserve energy and move with more confidence. I'll walk through what to consider when choosing one for your specific symptoms and environment for that day. Energy conservation strategies. Your energy is a limited resource with MS, and spending it wisely (not just "pushing through") is what makes the rest of your day possible. I'll share specific ways to plan your outings so you have energy left when you need it most. Preparing for different environments. Holidays, vacations, and even a walk around your neighborhood all come with their own variables, like uneven ground, crowds, or long stretches without a place to sit. I'll cover how to think through an environment ahead of time so you're not caught off guard. Cognitive strategies for problem-solving on the go. MS can affect processing speed and working memory, which makes real-time decision-making (like adjusting a plan last minute) more tiring. I'll share a few strategies to make that easier on your brain. This episode is for you if: ✅ You're navigating fatigue and want to plan around it instead of being surprised by it  ✅ You're considering a mobility aid but aren't sure where to start  ✅ Walking and talking at the same time takes more concentration than it used to  ✅ You're prepping for a holiday, trip, or event and want to feel more in control  ✅ You want strategies that are actually specific to MS, not generic advice You don't need to overhaul your whole life to feel more prepared. You need a few strategies that work for your body and your symptoms, used consistently. Progress, not perfection. You've got this. 🧡   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  295. MS & Menopause: Are Your Symptoms Changing…or Are Your Hormones? | Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl 29.07.2026 45mnt

   If you're a woman with multiple sclerosis (MS) and you've noticed your fatigue, brain fog, or word-finding trouble getting worse in your 40s or 50s… you're not imagining it. And you're not alone in this. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, a leading MS neurologist and menopause researcher from UCLA, to talk about something the MS community rarely hears explained clearly: what menopause is actually doing to your brain, and why it can look and feel so much like an MS flare. Here's the part that surprised me most. Your MRI can come back completely clean… no new lesions… and you can still feel like your cognition is slipping. That doesn't mean nothing is happening. It means we need to look at what's happening at the cellular level, not just the lesion level. Here's what we cover 🔑: Why estrogen matters for your brain, not just your reproductive system. Estrogen receptors sit on neurons and on the cells that support them. When estrogen drops during perimenopause and menopause, those cells lose a signal they've been relying on for decades. That's one reason cognition and energy can shift so noticeably during this window. What is the difference between smoldering MS vs. menopause-related change? These two can produce similar symptoms (fatigue, brain fog, slower processing) through very different mechanisms. Dr. Voskuhl explains how to tell them apart and why your neurologist may not have brought this up. Why "your MRI looks fine" isn't the whole story? MRI shows lesions. It doesn't show gray matter atrophy well, and it doesn't show what's happening inside cells that are still alive but struggling. Your symptoms are real data. What is estriol, the pregnancy estrogen, and why it's different? Many women with MS notice their symptoms quiet down during the third trimester. Estriol is a big part of why. Dr. Voskuhl walks through the research on estriol as a potential MS treatment and how it differs from traditional hormone replacement therapy. Why this conversation matters So many women with MS are told their symptoms are "just MS" or "just menopause" and sent on their way with no plan. Both answers leave you stuck. What you deserve is a clear explanation of what's happening in your body and options you can actually act on. If you've been quietly wondering whether hormones are part of your picture, this one's for you. And if you're the type of person who wants to understand the why behind your symptoms before you change anything… you're going to get a lot out of Dr. Voskuhl's explanations. About Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl  Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl is a professor of neurology at UCLA, director of the UCLA MS Program, and the faculty neurologist for the UCLA Comprehensive Menopause Care Program. She has spent over 25 years researching how sex hormones affect the brain with continuous NIH funding and over 200 publications in journals like Nature and Lancet Neurology. She's also the inventor behind the treatment that is now available through CleopatraRx, a company that she co-founded to bring this research directly to patients across the country. Where to reach Dr. Voskuhl: Instagram for Cleopatra RX: https://www.instagram.com/cleopatra_menopause_care/ LinkedIn for Cleopatra RX: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleopatrarx/ LinkedIn for Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rhonda-voskuhl/ Instagram for Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl:https://www.instagram.com/dr_rhonda_voskuhl/  Website: https://cleopatrarx.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=spotify&utm_campaign=msinglink  Book a consultation: https://cleopatrarx.com/start-your-treatment/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=spotify&utm_campaign=msinglink   Resources mentioned in this episode:  Article on Menopause and MS: https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/features/menopause-and-multiple-sclerosis-neurologic-manifestations/%20'      Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  
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  294. Why Your Core Is More Important Than You Think (Especially With MS) 22.07.2026 45mnt

  If MS has left you feeling like your body is folding forward… this episode is for you. In this episode, I'm walking you through the connection between posture, core strength, and daily function for people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Not in a textbook way, in a "here's what's actually happening in your body and here's what to do about it" way. Here's what we cover 🔑: Does your core matter? Your core isn't just abs. It's the group of muscles that stabilizes your trunk so your arms and legs have something solid to work from. When that stability is missing, your body compensates… and that shows up as unsteady walking, poor balance, and low back pain that won't quit. How posture changes your breathing. When your ribcage collapses forward, your diaphragm can't move through its full range. Less air in means less oxygen available for your muscles, which means more fatigue doing the same activities. Sitting taller isn't about looking better. It's about giving your lungs room to work. What are common posture imbalances I see in people with MS? Forward head position, rounded shoulders, an anterior pelvic tilt (your pelvis tipping forward, arching your low back), and the compensations that build on top of them. I'll explain why they happen and what they're costing you day to day. Targeted core and back exercises. Specific movements you can start with, why each one works, and how to modify them whether you're standing, seated, or working from a wheelchair. Neuroplasticity and functional exercise. Your brain can build new pathways to your muscles at any age… that wifi connection between your brain and your body can get stronger with the right practice. I'll explain what "the right practice" actually means and why repetition with intention beats hard workouts every time. What posture products are worth it? Braces, cushions, supports, gadgets. Some help. Some just do the work your muscles should be doing, which makes those muscles weaker over time. I'll tell you which is which. This episode is for you if: ✅ You've noticed you're slumping more than you used to✅ Low back pain has become part of your daily life✅ You feel out of breath doing things that never used to wind you✅ You're tripping more, or your walking feels less steady✅ You want to understand why something works, not just be told to do it You don't need long workouts or an hour a day. You need the right exercises for your symptoms, done consistently. Progress, not perfection. Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  293. Your MS Routine Might Not Be Working Anymore (Here's Why) 15.07.2026 15mnt

  In this solo episode, I'm sharing a lightbulb moment I had recently... one that made me realize how easy it is to slip into autopilot with our routines when we're living with multiple sclerosis. You know the feeling. You're doing the same 10 exercises you've done for the last two years. Same stretches. Same breakfast. Same everything. Not because it's what your body needs right now, but because it's what you started doing back when you first got serious about your MS. Here's the thing... your MS isn't the same as it was two years ago. Your strength isn't. Your goals probably aren't either. So why is your routine? In this episode, I walk through: ✅ Why autopilot happens (and why it's not a willpower problem) ✅ How to tell the difference between a habit that's still working and one you've outgrown ✅ The specific questions to ask yourself when reassessing your MS exercise routine I also talk about why "just keep going" isn't always the right advice. Consistency matters — but consistency with the wrong thing keeps you stuck in a really convincing way. This isn't about starting over. It's about checking in. Your movement still counts... but it counts more when it's pointed at the goals you actually have today. Progress, not perfection. You've got this. 🧡   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms   → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  292. MS Mindset Shifts with Damian Washington 08.07.2026 52mnt

  Okay, I've been looking forward to sharing this one with you. In this episode, I'm chatting with Damian Washington about something I know so many of you wrestle with... how do you stay motivated when you're working toward goals with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the progress feels slow, or a setback knocks you back a few steps? Damian and I get into the good stuff. We talk about the power of repetition (spoiler: it matters way more than pushing yourself to the max), and why you really need both short-term and long-term goals working together. We dig into how to build healthy habits that support your mobility, strength, and daily function... the kind of habits that actually stick, even on the days when MS makes everything harder. We also talk about the role of affirmations, how to build in real accountability, and how to make room for both your wins AND your setbacks. Because here's the thing: forward motion doesn't mean every day is a good day. It means you keep going anyway. You're going to walk away from this one with actual tools. Not vague "just stay positive" stuff, but real, doable tips and mindset shifts you can use to strengthen your body and your mind, feel better in your daily life with MS, and stay consistent even when your motivation dips. Whether you're focused on your exercises, drinking more water, or just trying to build a routine that works with your real life... this conversation is full of encouragement, honest insight, and examples you can actually relate to. You've got this. And I think this episode is going to remind you of that. In this episode, I share: → Why repetition beats intensity when you're building strength and mobility with MS  → Short-term vs. long-term goals, and why you need both  → How to build habits that stick, even through fatigue and brain fog  → The role of affirmations and shifting how you talk to yourself  → Building accountability so you actually stay consistent  → How to hold space for wins and setbacks without losing momentum  → Keeping yourself moving forward on the tough days  → Hydration and the small daily habits that support your progress  → Creating sustainable routines instead of rigid, all-or-nothing rules   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  291. You're Stronger Than You Think: Dr. Gretchen's Birth Story 01.07.2026 22mnt

  I'm back, and this is my first episode recording since going on maternity leave and welcoming my second daughter into the world. So many of you in The MSing Link and on social media have been asking about my birth story, and I wanted to share part of it with you. But this episode is about so much more than childbirth. It's about realizing how strong you already are… even if you've forgotten it. Especially if you don't feel it. In this episode, I share: → The arrival of Scarlett Townsend, and the special meaning behind her name (her middle name honors my husband's mom, who we lost this past November) → The decision that weighed on me my entire pregnancy: C-section or VBAC? And why I felt so much shame around the choice I ultimately made → Why staying local turned out to be exactly the right call, especially when my heart rate dropped into the 40s for nearly 24 hours after delivery → The chaos of those first weeks home: cluster feeding, two-kids-at-once mornings, a new puppy (ask me why… I honestly don't know), and my old friend, noise sensitivity → The ordinary moment on my couch (feeding Scarlett, singing "The Wheels on the Bus" into a toy microphone, and shooing the puppy away with one foot) when it hit me: Wait, I'm doing it. Look at me go. I want to be clear: I'm not comparing my experience to living with MS. But I think this is something universal. We don't always find out what we're capable of until something asks us to rise. Strength doesn't always look the way we imagine. Sometimes it looks like asking for help. Sometimes it looks like accepting the C-section instead of carrying shame about it. And sometimes it looks like getting out of bed, getting dressed, and walking around your home, all of which take real emotional and physical strength. So this is your reminder: you are so much stronger than you think. And so much stronger than you feel. More likely than not, you did something hard today and didn't even stop to notice. Your movement still counts. You've got this. 🧡 Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  290. From Me to You: Pep Talk 24.06.2026 16mnt

  If you're someone with MS who knows exercise matters but can't seem to stay consistent… this episode is your pep talk. We've all been there. You start the week with the best intentions, then by Wednesday the negative self-talk creeps in: "I'm too tired." "It's not working." "What's the point?" Sound familiar? Here's the thing, exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have for improving mobility, strength, and independence with multiple sclerosis (MS). But the way you talk to yourself about it? That matters just as much as the workout itself. In this episode, I'm breaking down: → Why mindset is the missing piece in most MS exercise routines  → The common thoughts that keep you stuck before you even start  → How to shift your mental habits so they support your goals instead of sabotaging them  → Practical strategies for building an exercise plan that actually fits your life  → Phrases you can borrow to boost your motivation on the hard days This isn't about pretending everything is fine or forcing toxic positivity. It's about honest, research-backed strategies for people with MS who want to feel stronger, move better, and believe in what's possible again. You've got this. 🧡   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  289. Clonus with MS: Why It Happens + How to Calm It Down 17.06.2026 21mnt

  If you've ever been sitting on the couch, just minding your business, and suddenly your leg starts bouncing like it has a mind of its own… you're not imagining it. That's clonus. And it's one of the most misunderstood symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I'm walking you through everything you need to know about clonus with MS… what it actually is, why it happens (hint: it's that wifi connection between your brain and your muscles getting a little staticky), and the small adjustments that can make a big difference in your daily life. We'll talk about: → What clonus is and why people with MS experience it  → The everyday moments it tends to show up (sitting, biking, standing in the shower… sound familiar?)  → Simple positioning and movement strategies you can try today to calm the bouncing  → Why "just push through it" isn't the answer… and what actually helps As an MS-specialized physical therapist, I've worked with so many people in The MSing Link community who've felt frustrated, embarrassed, or just plain confused by clonus. You're not alone in this. And there's more you can do about it than you've probably been told. If your legs have ever shaken in a way that felt impossible to control, this one's for you. You've got this. 🧡   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  288. Why Your Movement Isn’t Improving (And What to Do Instead) 10.06.2026 18mnt

  Ever feel like you're getting stronger… but your walking, your balance, your daily movement just isn't catching up? You're not imagining it. And you're definitely not alone. In this episode, I'm breaking down one of the most common frustrations I hear from people with multiple sclerosis (MS): you're putting in the work — biking, lifting, going to physical therapy — but it's not translating to the things that actually matter in your day. Walking to the mailbox. Standing up from a chair without plopping. Getting through the grocery store without your legs giving out. Here's the missing piece: functional exercise. I'll walk you through what functional exercise actually means, why it matters so much for people with MS, and how to take a big goal (like walking more steadily) and break it down into smaller, specific movements your body can actually practice and improve. This is the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles — and it's what makes the difference between getting stronger on paper and feeling stronger in real life. You'll walk away with: → A clearer understanding of why traditional exercise often falls short for people with MS  → How to identify the specific movements you want to improve  → Practical ways to build strength that actually shows up in your daily life Whether you're newly diagnosed or you've been living with MS for years, this one's for you. Your movement still counts — and there's a smarter way to make it count more. You've got this. 🧡 Resources mentioned in this episode:  Dr. Gretchen Hawley’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DoctorGretchenHawley   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  287. Let’s Talk About MS Spasticity: Causes, Triggers, and Support 03.06.2026 38mnt

  In this solo episode, I'm getting into one of the most common (and most misunderstood) multiple sclerosis symptoms… MS spasticity. If your legs feel heavy, your muscles lock up, or you've been told it's "just tightness"… this one is for you. I'll walk you through what spasticity actually is, what's happening in your body when it shows up, and why it can have such a big impact on your daily life and mobility.    We'll cover: → The Modified Ashworth Scale (and what those numbers really mean)  → The difference between spasms, cramps, and true spasticity  → Common triggers like fatigue, infection, heat, and stress  → What actually helps… including physical therapy-based strategies, stretching, medications, and the latest research on cannabis and electrical stimulation   Press play and let's get into it.   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  
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  286. Foot Drop Explained 27.05.2026 20mnt

  If MS has ever made your toe catch on the carpet, or you've felt that frustrating slap of your foot hitting the floor before you meant it to… this episode is for you. I'm walking you through what foot drop actually is, why it happens with multiple sclerosis (MS), and how it shows up in your walking and your fall risk. As an MS-specialized physical therapist, I'm breaking down the most common causes I see in my members — weakness in the ankle muscles, tight calves, sensory changes, and limited ankle range of motion. Each one matters, and each one responds to a slightly different approach. You'll learn specific exercises to strengthen the right muscles, stretches that actually move the needle, and sensory tools that help reconnect the connection between your brain and your foot. I'm also covering the products people ask me about all the time — insoles, AFOs (ankle-foot orthoses), and electrical stimulation, and how to know which might be a good fit for you. Here's the piece most people miss… supportive devices work best when they're paired with the right strength work. One without the other leaves progress on the table. I'll show you how to combine them so the changes you're working for actually stick. Whether you're trying to trip less, walk further, or just feel steadier on your feet, this one's packed with practical, MS-specific guidance you can start using today. You've got this. 🧡 Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Cadence shoes - Use code DRGRETCHEN10 for a 10% discount The MSing Link Episode 271, Toe Exercises for MS: Improve Balance, Foot Drop & Walking - Apple Podcast || Spotify The MSing Link Episode 280, - Apple Podcast || Spotify The MSing Link Online Program - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  285. How to Activate Neuroplasticity With MS 20.05.2026 28mnt

   In this episode, I'm continuing the conversation on neuroplasticity. Or, the way I like to explain it, the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles. Here's the thing: your brain can keep adapting and building new pathways, even if you've been living with MS for years. That's not wishful thinking. That's real, and it's research-backed. We'll talk through: What neuroplasticity actually is (in plain English, I promise) The MS-specific, functional exercises that help you build strength where it counts Why repetition and quality of movement matter more than how long you're working out How sleep, nutrition, and mindset quietly shape your MS symptoms day to day Simple ways to keep your routine fresh at home so you actually stick with it Resources Mentioned in this Episode: The MSing Link, Episode 270, Does MS Affect Brain Aging? What the Research Shows with Dr. Kelly Rich - Apple || Spotify   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  
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  284. What Is Neuroplasticity (And Why It Matters in MS) 13.05.2026 15mnt

  What if the key to walking better, feeling stronger, and moving with more confidence isn't just in your muscles… but in your brain? In this episode, I'm diving into one of my favorite topics as a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist and physical therapist: neuroplasticity and what it really means for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). If you've ever wondered why generic exercise programs haven't worked for you, or why "just doing more reps" hasn't moved the needle, this conversation is going to connect a lot of dots. What you'll learn in this episode: What neuroplasticity actually is, in plain language (think of it as the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles) Why neuroplasticity is especially important for people with MS, and how it relates to demyelination, lesions, and rebuilding neural pathways The difference between standard exercise and MS-specific, neuroplasticity-based functional exercise — and why that distinction matters for real progress How repetition, intention, and specificity train your brain to communicate better with your body Practical, MS-specific exercise strategies you can start using to support strength, walking, balance, coordination, and stability Daily activities and small habits (outside of formal workouts) that reinforce change How neuroplasticity supports not just physical symptoms, but also mindset, confidence, and mental resilience with MS What the research says about neuroplasticity and MS — and what it does and does not promise Why progress is still possible, even if you've been living with MS for years and feel like you've tried everything   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  283. What People with MS Wish You Knew 06.05.2026 24mnt

  In honor of Mother's Day, I'm sharing something I've been sitting with for a while… the real, honest answers to the question, "What do you wish the people in your life understood about living with MS?" I asked. The MSing Link community answered. And what they shared is something every mom, daughter, sister, and friend with MS deserves to have heard out loud. We're talking about the fatigue that doesn't go away after a nap. The symptoms no one can see, but you feel every second. The emotional weight of waking up not knowing what your body will do that day. The grief, the guilt, the love, and the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up. If you have MS, I hope this episode makes you feel a little less alone. If you love someone with MS, I hope it gives you the words you've been searching for. Either way, you'll walk away with real language, real stories, and real ways to bridge the gap so the people closest to you can finally start to get it. Press play. Share it with someone who needs to hear it. And let's keep showing the world what life with MS actually looks like… together. 🧡   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  282. Balance Exercises for MS: 5 Moves for Real-Life Stability 29.04.2026 21mnt

  In this episode, I’m sharing my top five evidence-based balance exercises for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). If you’ve ever felt frustrated by doing balance exercises that don’t translate to real life—like getting out of bed, climbing stairs, or turning around—this episode is for you.  As a physical therapist and MS specialist, I walk you through practical MS balance training strategies and explain exactly how to perform each exercise safely, even with mobility aids. You’ll learn why traditional balance routines often fall short and discover functional exercise ideas to improve your stability, walking, and confidence in daily activities with MS.  Join me on The MSing Link Podcast for expert PT tips, actionable balance drills, and straightforward advice to help you thrive with multiple sclerosis and walk better every day! Resources mentioned in this episode:  The MSing Link Podcast - Episode 279, MS Balance Tips for Real Life - Apple || Spotify This episode on YouTube,  Balance Exercises for MS: 5 Moves for Real-Life Stability - YouTube   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  281. The Science of Nervous System Regulation with Gina Coil 22.04.2026 38mnt

  In this episode, I'm diving deep into nervous system regulation with Gina Coil, the creator of NeuroScenes, guided audio experiences designed to help you calm your nervous system, even when you're living with multiple sclerosis (MS) or other chronic conditions. If you've ever tried traditional meditation during an MS flare or when fatigue hits hard and found it just doesn't work, you're not alone. That's exactly why Gina created something different. We'll talk about what Neuro Scenes actually are, how guided visualization and sensory techniques can make nervous system regulation feel easier and more restorative, and why calming your nervous system can help reduce MS symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing MS for years, this conversation is packed with practical strategies and neuroscience-backed tools you can start using right away, plus exclusive access to Gina's calming audio experiences created specifically for the MS community. About Gina Coil: Gina Coil creates tools for people who are overwhelmed and still have to keep living their lives. Her work exists for real moments. The ones where things feel heavy, confusing, or mentally exhausting, and you don’t have the energy to read a whole book, follow a long program, or figure out what’s “wrong” with you. Gina is deeply interested in how the human brain and nervous system actually function under stress, not how they function when life is calm and ideal. She believes that when someone is struggling, more information usually isn’t what helps first. Feeling a little better is. NeuroScenes grew out of that belief and her own lived experience. They are guided, imagination‑based experiences designed to help the nervous system regulate in real time, without pressure, performance, or fixing. Gina meets people where they are and helps things feel more manageable first. Connect with Gina:Website: www.ginacoil.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18UG5RQqri/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colorfullivingwithginaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@colorfullivingwithgina?_t=ZP-8uIC7VjKMe7&_r=1YouTube: https://youtube.com/@colorfullivingwithginacoil?si=Y-z1b3I8QWZnJ-NY Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  280. BioNess, Red Light, Vibration Plates: Honest MS Reviews 15.04.2026 36mnt

  In this episode, I’m diving into a product review of five popular tools and devices commonly mentioned for managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms—vibration plates, Bioness L300 (and other functional electrical stimulation devices), red light therapy, the Pulse device, and Restural foot pad. I break down the evidence behind each product, share my perspective as an MS-specialized physical therapist, and offer expert tips to help you decide what could truly support your MS mobility, walking, and strength goals.  Resources Mentioned In This Episode:  The MSing Link Episode 165, Red Light Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis w/ Dr. Alyson Evans - Spotify | Apple The MSing Link Episode 243, MS Red Light Therapy for Nerve Repair & Inflammation – Chiropractor + PhD Explains - Spotify | Apple The MSing Link Episode 273, Ankle Braces vs AFOs for MS: What’s the Difference? - Spotify | Apple The MSing Link Episode 274, Fake MS Cures on Social Media: How to Tell What’s Real vs. AI Hype - Spotify | Apple   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  279. MS Balance Tips for Real Life 08.04.2026 22mnt

  In this episode, I’m tackling a topic that frustrates so many of us living with multiple sclerosis (MS): balance training! As an MS-specialized physical therapist and founder of the MSing Link, I break down why traditional balance exercises like tandem stance, feet together, and wobble boards often don’t help with real-life activities—like getting dressed, walking on uneven surfaces, or turning your head.  Instead, I share evidence-based, functional balance exercises that are proven to improve mobility, strength, and confidence in day-to-day life. If you want to discover practical strategies, MS exercises, and personalized tools to tackle balance challenges, this episode is for you!    Resources Mentioned In This Episode:  The MSing Link Online Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
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  278. What New Symptoms Really Mean in MS Rehab 01.04.2026 25mnt

  In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I share a personal story about falling down the stairs while seven months pregnant, and how my experience relates closely to what so many living with multiple sclerosis (MS) go through when working to get stronger and walk better.  We explore the gate control theory of pain and discuss why new symptoms can pop up during MS exercise routines—and how this often signals progress, not setbacks.  If you’ve ever felt discouraged by changing MS symptoms, tune in for expert insights, practical strategies, and encouragement tailored for your journey. I offer actionable MS exercises, tips for walking better, and guidance for overcoming mobility challenges. Join me as we peel back the layers of MS to empower your quality of life!   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink