Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis and Treatment at Shepherd Center
Integrative treatments for diagnosing, managing, and slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis
Although there is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis (MS), medicines and other treatments can help control the condition and ease symptoms. At the Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute at Shepherd Center, your treatment plan is customized based on your MS type, whether your disease is active or in remission, and the symptoms you’re experiencing.
This individualized care plan can include confirming the diagnosis, prescribing disease-modifying medications, administrating infusion therapy, or coordinating further specialized treatment in rehabilitation and wellness.
You may also be referred to other specialized clinics and services within Shepherd Center, such as vocational counseling, seating, or urology, to help manage symptoms and provide the most comprehensive care.
Medical Workup, Diagnosing, and Managing Multiple Sclerosis
MS Medical Workup
Through an in-depth neurological assessment and state-of-the-art imaging, we take the time to get to know your individual medical history, symptoms, and other possible factors. This comprehensive approach allows us to develop a more specific and personalized treatment plan.
Diagnosing MS
Diagnosing multiple sclerosis can be a challenging process. Misdiagnosis is common without a singular test to diagnose the condition, leading to delays in proper treatment or unnecessary medications that can alter the immune system. At the MS Institute, our care team has exceptional knowledge and experience in treating patients with MS, so we understand how to differentiate the disease from similar conditions.
Managing MS Symptoms and Pain
Your MS symptoms may vary in intensity and duration and change over time. MS symptoms and pain can be effectively managed with a comprehensive treatment approach that includes medication and rehabilitation strategies. Due to MS's complexity and diversity, you may also be referred to other experts and specialty clinics to help create a coordinated care plan tailored to your symptoms and goals.
Treatment for Modifying and Slowing the Progression of Multiple Sclerosis
Disease Modifying Therapies, also known as DMTs, are medications that modify the underlying mechanism of the disease itself. DMTs used for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) management are available via different routes of administration, including injectables, IV infusions, and oral medications. The goal of DMTs for MS is to alter the course of the disease and slow its progression. Below is a list of the majority of DMTs used at the MS Institute.
Injectable Disease Modifying Therapies
- Avonex (interferon beta-1a)
- Betaferon (interferon beta-1b)
- Extavia (beta interferon-1b)
- Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone)
- Ofatumumab (Kesimpta)
- Plegridy (peginterferon beta 1a)
- Rebif (beta interferon-1a)
Oral Diseases Modifying Therapies
- Cladribine (Mavenclad)
- Dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera)
- Diroximel fumarate (Vumerity)
- Fingolimod (Gilenya)
- Ozanimod (Zeposia)
- Siponimod (Mayzent)
- Teriflunomide (Aubagio)
Infusion Disease Modifying Therapies
- Natalizumab (Tysabri)
- Ocrelizumab (Ocrevus)
Infusion Therapy for MS
As an alternative to oral medications, MS infusion therapy may be an option to help minimize symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and reduce the risk of future MS exacerbations.
At the MS Institute, our specialized MS nurses and providers administer infusion therapy for patients in a caring and family-like atmosphere. Our infusion center is conveniently housed within the clinic space, and it may be possible to have an infusion and a medical appointment scheduled on the same day.
Patient TestimonialIt’s how much the MS Institute invests in you. It’s the amount of time you have with doctors. You’re not rushed. Staff members are always talking with each other, too. Everybody I work with at Shepherd Center is constantly collaborating on my case.
Angel TorresPatientAndrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute
Appointments and Referrals for the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute
Located within Shepherd Center in Atlanta, the MS Institute offers convenient access and free parking. A variety of scheduling options are provided, including repeat and same-day appointment times when available. Receiving all of your MS care in a centralized location at Shepherd Center ensures continuity of care through a comprehensive team approach.
Patient Stories from Shepherd Center's Newsroom
Patient Story: Angel Torres
With the help of a personalized treatment plan from the MS Institute, Capt. Angel Torres was able to help strengthen his muscles, combat foot drop issues, and address memory fog.
Patient Story: Charlotte Anderson
After receiving her MS diagnosis in 2016, Charlotte Anderson has been working with the MS Institute at Shepherd Center to take control of fighting the disease and her symptoms.
Patient Story: Stephanie Anderson
The MS Institute helped Stephanie Anderson manage her vision, mobility, and cognitive issues, giving her the confidence to apply to be an associate judge.
The Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute at Shepherd Center
Contact Us
Our Address
2020 Peachtree Road NW
Atlanta, GA 30309-1465
Clinic, Rehabilitation, and Wellness Hours
Monday to Friday
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET