Join Dr. Tobia Zanotto and Dr. Jacob Sosnoff for an important session on Frailty in Multiple Sclerosis (MS): From hidden burden to targeted rehabilitation strategies.

Understanding Frailty in MS

Frailty is commonly understood as a biological syndrome characterised by a decline in physiological reserve and resilience. This decrease in the body’s ability to cope with stressors leads to greater vulnerability to adverse clinical outcomes and often results in a lower quality of life.

Traditionally associated with ageing, frailty is now recognised as a relevant clinical concern for people with MS—even at younger ages. The condition is generally defined through five core components:

• Slowness: reduced gait speed

• Weakness: decreased handgrip strength

• Inactivity: low levels of physical activity

• Exhaustion: persistent fatigue or low energy

• Shrinkage: unintentional weight loss

Why Frailty Matters for the MS Community

Frailty is highly prevalent among people with MS and often emerges earlier compared to the general population. This early onset carries significant implications:

• Frailty is closely linked to reduced quality of life, mobility challenges, and increased risk of falls.

• It is associated with many common MS-related symptoms, including fatigue, cognitive changes, and reduced physical endurance.

• Despite its importance, frailty remains under-recognised and understudied, leaving clinicians and people with MS without clear guidance on how best to manage it.

From Hidden Burden to Targeted Rehabilitation

Dr. Zanotto and Dr. Sosnoff will explore how the identification of frailty can serve as a gateway to more personalised and effective rehabilitation strategies. Topics will include:

• How frailty is measured and monitored in people with MS

• The relationship between frailty, disability progression, and everyday functioning

• Practical rehabilitation approaches designed to increase resilience and reduce vulnerability

• Emerging research directions and clinical applications

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to integrate frailty assessments into MS care and how targeted interventions can support better long-term outcomes.

Register here!