Multiple sclerosis
Neuroinflammatory disorders we treat
A new diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) or other neuroinflammatory disorders can feel overwhelming. We are here to make it feel more manageable. We provide FDA-approved treatments, access to clinical trials and advanced team-based care at every step.
Through our patient-centered approach, we’ll work with you to build a personalized care plan to treat your MS and improve your quality of life.
A center for comprehensive MS care
We’re a National MS Society Center for Comprehensive MS Care. Many of our doctors, including Drs. Myla Goldman and Unsong Oh, are regularly recognized as Top Docs in the region. We also receive funding from the National Institutes of Health and the National MS Society. This funding supports our ongoing research to advance MS care.
Make an appointment
Call 804-828-9350 to make an appointment or refer a patient.
What is multiple sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that causes the protective covering of your nerves (myelin) to be injured. This leads to symptoms like numbness, weakness and difficulty seeing or walking. MS shows up differently for every person.
We treat MS and related neuroimmunology conditions including:
- MOG antibody disease (MOGAD)
- Neuromyelitis optica
- Neurosarcoidosis
- Other neuroinflammatory diseases of the central nervous system
Diagnosis and testing
We rely on MRIs and other imaging for diagnosis. If you have not received a diagnosis of MS or a related disorder, we will help you schedule the right testing for you.
We understand the challenges of a new diagnosis. For some people, it’s difficult to figure out how your disease is showing up. It can be easy to wrongly blame symptoms on MS or another condition. We work with a team of providers to address your symptoms and care for you as a whole person.
My job is to help you live your life the way you had planned, five minutes before MS began. We’re here to ensure you can live the life you were planning to live.
Myla D. Goldman, M.D., Chief, Neuroimmunology Division
Multiple sclerosis treatment
Every person is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to MS treatment. We‘ll get to know your lifestyle, preferences and other factors to make sure your care plan works for you.
Disease-modifying therapy for MS includes medications that target and alter the immune system. Today, people have access to a growing range of FDA-approved treatment options. We’ll work with you to select the medication that is optimal for your individual needs and circumstances.
Our robust research program means patients have access to clinical trials. This means eligible patients may be able to try promising therapies before they’re available elsewhere.
Your care plan may also involve other services and clinics such as:
- Botox for limb spasticity
- Multidisciplinary sarcoidosis clinic
- Autoimmune complications of immunotherapy clinic
Once you’re our patient, we are your partners for life.
We will work together to reassess and review your care plan and shift our approach as needed over the course of your care. We’re dedicated to helping you live your best life.
FAQs
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
Bring these items to your first appointment:
- MRI images and any other imaging
- Lumbar puncture results (if completed)
- Available lab testing
- List of current medications
- A trusted family member or friend
Where can I go for care in Virginia?
VCU Health offers care for patients with MS and neuroinflammatory disorders at locations throughout the region:
We also offer convenient telehealth appointments for existing patients.
How often will I have appointments for my MS?
We typically see new patients more frequently in the first year depending on additional testing that is ordered and needed. Most established patients have appointments once or twice per year, with lab work once a year.
Multiple sclerosis resources
Find national and local MS resources to support your journey:
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Virginia-West Virginia Chapter
- Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
Meet your care team
Our providers are fellowship-trained in the care and management of MS and neuroinflammatory disorders. This training helps them understand options, risks and benefits. They're skilled in caring for patients with less common symptoms or complex care needs. Our fellowship program is also helping train the next generation of neuroimmunology providers.
Our multidisciplinary care team includes:
- Neuroimmunology physicians
- Clinical pharmacists
- Dedicated nurse care coordinators
- Psychiatrists
We also have collaborative relationships with providers across VCU Health to manage all your symptoms. Based on your symptoms and care needed, your team may include specialists in:
- Neuro-ophthalmology
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Rehabilitation medicine
- Sleep medicine
- Speech therapy
- Urology
Patients are also supported by Ross Tingen, PharmD, and Lark Bailey, Nurse Care Coordinator.
Make an appointment
Call 804-828-9350 to make an appointment or refer a patient.
