Multiple Sclerosis

Dr. Susan Rubin is a Co-Director in charge of the NorthShore Neurological Insitute multiple sclerosis program.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disorder of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) caused by progressive damage to the outer covering of nerve fibers. The ravages of MS result in decreased nerve function, which can lead to a variety of symptoms and, eventually, disabilities.

That’s why the NorthShore Neurological Institute offers compassionate, multidisciplinary care for patients with MS and related disorders, including optic neuritis and inflammatory and infectious myelitis or myelopathies. Our experienced neurology specialists work collaboratively with physiatrists, neuroradiologists, urologists, psychologists, physical therapists and social workers, among others, to help individual patients manage the disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment
Comprehensive MS treatment at the Neurological Institute begins with a meeting between patients and their neurology specialist. We obtain a comprehensive history, conduct an in-depth physical evaluation and diagnose the disorder using the latest technology—including advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), evoked potentials and lumbar punctures when indicated.

Since the progression and severity of MS can be highly variable, the practiced neurologists of the Neurological Institute focus on individualized management designed to improve patients’ quality of life. Our multidisciplinary team approach is an advantage in helping patients deal with the myriad challenges associated with MS, providing them with access to all resources required for treatment.

Experienced healthcare staff at our infusion centers treat acute MS exacerbations with intravenous corticosteroids or infusion of other therapies, such as immunoglobulins and monoclonal antibodies. We also perform plasma exchange in some cases to treat acute MS exacerbations. Our knowledgeable neurology specialists also have extensive experience managing MS symptoms like spasticity, pain, numbness and weakness by using the latest drugs and leading edge technologies, including intrathecal Baclofen pumps.

The Neurological Institute focuses treatment on the whole person—not just the disease. That’s why our physiatry experts, who are trained in physical medicine and rehabilitation, are key physician members of the MS care team. These experts help maximize function by focusing on patients’ optimal mobility and ability to perform activities of daily living.

The physiatrists lead a multidisciplinary team of physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech therapists who offer skilled therapeutic interventions; appropriate assistive devices such as braces or walkers; and/or modifications in patients’ home or work environments, such as the installation of handrails to help keep individuals safe. Our rehabilitation team’s expertise ensures patients who are living with MS minimize disability and maximize function.

Research Means Patients Have Options
An increasing number of “disease-modifying drugs” are becoming available for the long-term treatment of MS. These therapies focus on preventing relapses and disability progression. Our specialists participate in clinical trials that help develop these pharmacologic therapies, keeping abreast of promising advances in the field, giving patients access to the latest information.

Patient and Family Support
Our specialists are active participants in community and regional patient-focused activities for MS. The Neurological Institute hosts a support group for MS patients the third Wednesday of every month from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Evanston Hospital. For more information, call Deanne Basofin at 847.673.3554 or e-mail her at dwbasofin@sbcglobal.net.

A No Visible Signs support group is currently being formed at Glenbrook Hospital as well.

For More Information
Please call 877.570.7020 for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.