In the decade since being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, I've seen a number of physical therapists.

And in that time I've realized that the best PTs have understood that working with patients with chronic conditions involve a different mindset from the traditional physical therapy patient. 

Given that the typical course of physical therapy treatment is limited in sessions, one of the most beneficial things that PTs can do is give patients with chronic problems information, support, and guidance beyond the exercises themselves that patients can continue to use on their own. In other words at some point, because of the frequent mismatch between the amount of treatment needed and the amount covered, patients with chronic conditions are likely to have to become their own PT. To the extent that they can understand the thinking behind a course of physical therapy, it can help them be more successful on their own.