Podcast
The MSing Link
Hosted by Dr. Gretchen Hawley PT, DPT, MSCS · EN
Do you have Multiple Sclerosis and have goals of improving your mobility, energy, and motivation? On this show, you’ll learn MS-specific exercises and symptom management strategies to help you gain control over your life with MS. I also bring in other MS Experts in the healthcare industry to share their insights and advice so you’ll be armed with research-driven education. You’ll leave each episode feeling empowered and ready to take action!
45episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
245. Why Small MS Progress Matters More Than Big Goals (Real Examples Inside)
Aug 13, 202500:22:59Summary readyIn this episode, I’m sharing a personal story that reminded me just how crucial it is to focus on small progress—especially when living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Drawing from both my own recent experience and real success stories from my MSing Link community, I’ll show you why those micro improvements matter much more than you think. We’ll talk about how looking for and celebrating tiny wins—like walking a few more steps or lifting your leg an inch higher—can keep you motivated, help with MS symptom management, and even spark neuroplasticity for lasting change. Whether you’re working toward better strength, balance, or independence, you’ll learn practical strategies and exercises to notice improvements each day. Join me for actionable MS physical therapy tips, inspirational examples, and a new mindset for tracking MS progress, so you feel empowered and hopeful on your wellness journey! Resources mentioned in the episode: The MSing Link, Episode 144, How to Measure Progress & Stay Motivated - Apple | Spotify Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
Summary
244. Feel Less Stiff in the Morning With MS: 3 Quick Exercises to Wake Up Your Muscles
Aug 6, 202500:16:23Summary readyIn this episode, I share three quick and easy exercises you can do to help reduce morning stiffness and improve balance with multiple sclerosis (MS). Learn how activating your neural pathways before standing up can make a big difference in how steady and confident you feel—whether you’ve been resting in bed, sitting on the couch, or even out at a restaurant. I’ll walk you through the simple steps of marching, leg kicks, and toe lifts, all designed to wake up your muscles and boost your mobility in 5 minutes or less. These MS-friendly morning exercises are perfect for anyone looking to improve walking, decrease stiffness, and feel more in control of their daily routine. Join me for evidence-based tips and practical MS physical therapy strategies that empower you to start your day strong and move with greater ease! Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider MS Conference Research Made Simple Course Waitlist - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/cmsc-2025-waitlist Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
Summary
243. MS Red Light Therapy for Nerve Repair & Inflammation – Chiropractor + PhD Explains
Jul 30, 202500:43:27Summary readyIn this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Genevieve Newton, chiropractor, PhD, and Scientific Director at Fringe, to dive deep into the science of red light therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS). We discuss how red and near-infrared light therapy can help with nerve repair, reduce inflammation, boost energy, and improve common MS symptoms like fatigue, pain, and drop foot. Dr. Newton explains the benefits of using evidence-based red light therapy routines, what to look for in quality red light therapy devices, and shares an easy-to-follow protocol specifically for people living with MS. Whether you’re curious about complementary MS therapies or want to optimize your daily routine, this episode is packed with practical advice, proven strategies, and empowering tools to help you get stronger and walk better. Tune in for insights that can make a difference in your MS journey and enhance your quality of life! About Dr. Genevieve Newton, DC, PhD: Dr. Genevieve Newton, DC, PhD spent close to 20 years as a researcher and educator in the field of nutritional sciences before joining Fringe as its Scientific Director. Gen’s job is to “bring the science” that supports Fringe’s products and education. She is passionate about all things Fringe, and is a deep believer in healing body, mind and spirit using the gifts of the natural world. Resources mentioned in this episode: The MSing Link Episode 165, Red Light Theraphy for Multiple Sclerosis w/ Dr. Alyson Evans - Apple Podcast || Spotify Fringe Red Light Therapy: www.fringeheals.com Red Light Therapy Research & Education: https://fringeheals.com/blog/ Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider MS Conference Research Made Simple Course Waitlist - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/cmsc-2025-waitlist Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
Summary
242. How to NOT Overdo Exercise with MS: 7 Strategies by an MS Physical Therapist
Jul 23, 202500:21:09Summary readyIn this episode, I’m sharing my top 7 strategies as a Multiple Sclerosis Physical Therapist to help you avoid overdoing exercise with MS. We’ll dive into how to recognize the signs of overexertion, ways to modify your workout routine, and practical tips you can use right away to manage fatigue and prevent symptom flare-ups. You’ll learn how to build smart exercise plans for good, average, and tough days, and discover simple ways to adapt your MS exercise routine for lasting strength and energy. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with MS for years, these MS exercise tips, modifications, and fatigue management strategies will empower you to stay active without overdoing it. Join me for evidence-backed advice and MS exercise guidance to help you get stronger and walk better—while protecting your quality of life with MS! Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider MS Research Made Simple Course Waitlist - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/cmsc-2025-waitlist Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
Summary
241. The Rule of 2: How to Stop Compensating and Use Your Real Strength With MS
Jul 16, 202500:17:02Summary readyIn this episode, I’m sharing my “Rule of 2” method—a powerful strategy to help you stop overcompensating and start using your real strength with multiple sclerosis (MS). If you often find yourself relying on your arms to lift your leg or pushing off armrests to stand up, you’re not alone! I’ll walk you through how to become more aware of these habits and give you practical tips so you can retrain your brain and body for better mobility and functional strength. Join me as I explain why just getting stronger in your exercises isn’t enough, and how the Rule of 2 bridges the gap between strength training and everyday movement. Whether you’re working on walking better, gaining independence, or improving your quality of life with MS, these strategies are designed for you. Tune in for expert advice, MS-specific exercises, and tools you can use right away to build confidence in your body and break the cycle of compensation! Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink
Summary