Last updated: 20 December 2023

Posture and MS

Poor posture is a common problem for people with multiple sclerosis and can lead to problems including pain, pressure sores or reduced mobility and independence.

These pages explain why good posture is so important and suggest some practical steps to improve your posture in everyday situations. They look at good and bad posture in standing, sitting and lying and examine the relationship of the postural muscles - the deep muscles in your stomach and back - with arm function and balance.

These pages are intended to complement information given to you by health professionals and act as a reminder of advice you may have been given. They are not intended to replace the thorough assessment of a health professional. If you have specific concerns, seek the advice of a therapist.

Useful posture links

MS Trust resources

Employment

  • Access to work - GOV.UK - a scheme that offers advice and support to employers and employees with health or disability issues that affect their ability to work

Posture at work

Other advice and links

Good and bad posture

If you have MS, you may find keeping or maintaining a good posture challenging. Poor posture can develop gradually and cause problems with pain, activity or pressure sores. We look at how to spot good and bad posture.

Core muscles and your posture

Core stability muscles, or postural muscles, are the deep muscles in your abdomen, pelvis and back. They act to hold you together and help you maintain a good posture.

Good posture when standing and walking

Good posture when standing and walking can be challenging, especially if you have issues with balance, weakness, stiffness, your vision or fatigue. Here are simple things you can do to improve your posture when standing and walking.

Good posture when sitting

Good posture when sitting is important. But MS presents challenges, especially if you have weakness, stiffness and fatigue. This guide includes simple things you can do to correct your posture to ensure you sit well and comfortably.

Good posture when sitting at a desk

Your desk set-up should help you maintain good posture when working. This will help avoid muscle and joint strain and fatigue. Discover how best to set-up your workspace, including your desk, keyboard, mouse, lighting and ventilation.

Good posture when sitting on a sofa

When sitting on a sofa, there are things to consider to help good posture and avoid joint strain and aches. This guide includes things you can do to improve your posture when sitting, reading or relaxing.

Good posture when lying down

It's important to think about posture when lying down, resting or sleeping. Lower back and neck pain, leg spasms or leg pain can all be aggravated by the way you lie. With changes, you can be more comfortable and sleep better.
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