Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. MS patients are very sensitive to changes in temperature and even a slight increase can worsen their symptoms. This phenomenon is known as Uhthoff phenomenon. Even a minimal temperature increase of 0.5°C can cause discomfort or disability in patients with MS1.
Clothing textiles can play an important role in treating MS symptoms. Research studies have shown that wearing cooling garments can lead to functional improvements in MS patients who are sensitive to temperature changes. A study by Meyer-Heim et al. (2007) showed that wearing cooling clothing can reduce pain, muscle spasms, tremors, and other symptoms related to MS2. Personal cooling accessories, including cooling vests filled with ice packs, allow MS patients to effectively regulate their core body temperature1.
In addition to cooling clothing, adaptive clothing can help MS patients maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. Adaptive clothing is designed to meet the specific needs of people with disabilities or mobility issues. For example, adaptive clothing for MS patients may have magnetic closures instead of buttons or zippers, which can be difficult for people with limited dexterity3.
At Duracool, we know how important it is to provide high-quality textile clothing for people with MS. Our line of adaptive clothing adapts to the unique needs of people with disabilities and mobility issues. Our products are made from high quality materials and are designed to be comfortable, functional and fashionable.
We hope this blog post was informative and helpful. If you have any questions about our line of adaptive clothing or would like more information about how we can help you manage your MS symptoms, please feel free to contact us.
More Information
1: National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS). (North Dakota.). The Uhthoff phenomenon. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms/Uhthoff-s-Phenomenon
2: Meyer-Heim et al. (2007). Efficacy of cooling glove treatment on subjective and objective symptoms of spasticity in multiple sclerosis: a pilot study. Journal of Multiple Sclerosis, 13(5), 660-663.
3: Disabled world. (2019). Adaptive clothing for people with disabilities: revolutionizing the fashion industry. https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/blogs/adaptive-clothing.php