#162: The Art of Pain Relief. Multimodal Approaches to MS (with Dr. Camelia Ionescu)

Pain is one of the most common and challenging symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). In this episode, neurologist and pain specialist Dr. Camelia Ionescu explains how pain in MS develops—and how a multimodal approach can help manage it effectively.

👉 This episode is based on an interview originally recorded in German (January 2025) and has been translated to make these important insights accessible to an international audience.

You'll learn how different types of pain arise, why treatment must be individualized, and how combining medication, physiotherapy, psychological support, and self-management strategies can improve quality of life.

🔎 What you'll learn in this episode

• What causes pain in multiple sclerosis
• The difference between nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain
• Which medication options are available
• How physiotherapy and interdisciplinary care support pain relief
• Why psychological assessment and therapy are essential
• How patients can strengthen self-empowerment in everyday life
• Which complementary and alternative approaches may help
• When multimodal pain therapy becomes necessary

🌐 Read the full blog article

👉 You can find the full article with all questions and detailed answers here:
https://ms-perspektive.de/en/162-pain-relief

🌍 International resources on MS & pain

For further information and support, these organizations provide reliable, up-to-date resources:

• National Multiple Sclerosis Society
• MS International Federation
• International Association for the Study of Pain

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Would you like to give listeners something to take away?

Dr. Camelia Ionescu: I would like to tell everyone affected: Do not give up! There are always ways to relieve pain and improve quality of life. It can take time, but together we will find the right solution.

Nele von Horsten: Thank you very much, Dr. Ionescu, for the insights and valuable tips. Your work is so important. Thank you!

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See you soon and try to make the best out of your life,
Nele

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