Real Talk on MS Fatigue: What Works, What’s Next
Read the transcript at https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-06/Real%20Talk%20on%20MS%20Fatigue_What%20Works-What%E2%80%99s%20Next-TRANSCRIPT.pdf
In this episode of Real Talk MS, host John Strum sits down with John DeLuca, PhD, senior vice president of Research and Training at Kessler Foundation, to explore the elusive nature of MS-related fatigue. Dr. DeLuca explains how fatigue is influenced by a complex mix of neurological and psychological factors, making it difficult to define and treat. He shares insights from MRI studies that link fatigue to changes in brain function—particularly in the basal ganglia—and highlights cognitive behavioral therapy as a leading treatment option, while also pointing to promising pharmacological developments on the horizon.
The conversation expands to include Brian Sandroff, PhD, assistant director of the Center for Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Research at Kessler Foundation, who joins Dr. DeLuca in emphasizing the power of personalized, joyful activities—like gardening or joining a book club—as effective ways to combat fatigue. They discuss the evolution of MS rehabilitation, including the rise of tele-rehab and precision exercise programs tailored to individual needs. With compelling research on how aerobic exercise can improve cognitive function and even slow brain atrophy, the episode offers a hopeful look at how lifestyle interventions are reshaping MS care.
More information about
John DeLuca, PhD
Senior Vice President, Research and Training
Co-Director, Center for Multiple Sclerosis Research
https://KesslerFoundation.org/aboutus/John%20DeLuca
Brian M. Sandroff, PhD
Assistant Director, Neuroscience Research
Center for Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Research
Center for Multiple Sclerosis Research,
https://KesslerFoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/brian-m-sandroff-phd
Explore Our Research – Dive into the latest studies tackling MS-related challenges and discover how our scientists are advancing treatments to improve lives, https://KesslerFoundation.org/researchcenter-neuropsychology-and-neuroscience-research/ms/multiple-sclerosis
Listen to the full episode at https://realtalkms.com/episode-406-from-the-2025-consortium-of-ms-centers-annual-meeting-part-two-with-dr-john-deluca-dr-brian-sandroff-and-kristine-werner-ozug/
To learn more, you can listen to Jon Strum's podcast each week as he breaks down the latest multiple sclerosis news and research that may impact MS treatments. https://realtalkms.com/
Use by permission: REAL TALKS MS
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In this episode of Real Talk MS, host John Strum sits down with John DeLuca, PhD, senior vice president of Research and Training at Kessler Foundation, to explore the elusive nature of MS-related fatigue. Dr. DeLuca explains how fatigue is influenced by a complex mix of neurological and psychological factors, making it difficult to define and treat. He shares insights from MRI studies that link fatigue to changes in brain function—particularly in the basal ganglia—and highlights cognitive behavioral therapy as a leading treatment option, while also pointing to promising pharmacological developments on the horizon.
The conversation expands to include Brian Sandroff, PhD, assistant director of the Center for Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Research at Kessler Foundation, who joins Dr. DeLuca in emphasizing the power of personalized, joyful activities—like gardening or joining a book club—as effective ways to combat fatigue. They discuss the evolution of MS rehabilitation, including the rise of tele-rehab and precision exercise programs tailored to individual needs. With compelling research on how aerobic exercise can improve cognitive function and even slow brain atrophy, the episode offers a hopeful look at how lifestyle interventions are reshaping MS care.
More information about
John DeLuca, PhD
Senior Vice President, Research and Training
Co-Director, Center for Multiple Sclerosis Research
https://KesslerFoundation.org/aboutus/John%20DeLuca
Brian M. Sandroff, PhD
Assistant Director, Neuroscience Research
Center for Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Research
Center for Multiple Sclerosis Research,
https://KesslerFoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/brian-m-sandroff-phd
Explore Our Research – Dive into the latest studies tackling MS-related challenges and discover how our scientists are advancing treatments to improve lives, https://KesslerFoundation.org/researchcenter-neuropsychology-and-neuroscience-research/ms/multiple-sclerosis
Listen to the full episode at https://realtalkms.com/episode-406-from-the-2025-consortium-of-ms-centers-annual-meeting-part-two-with-dr-john-deluca-dr-brian-sandroff-and-kristine-werner-ozug/
To learn more, you can listen to Jon Strum's podcast each week as he breaks down the latest multiple sclerosis news and research that may impact MS treatments. https://realtalkms.com/
Use by permission: REAL TALKS MS
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