Head Injuries and ALS: What People With MS Should Know
Key Takeaway
A large review found a link between past head injuries and ALS in some studies, but it did not show that head injuries cause ALS or change MS risk.
What They Found
Researchers combined results from 29 studies involving more than 5 million people. In studies comparing people with and without ALS, those with a past head injury had 36% higher odds of ALS. A separate group of studies that followed people over time found a possible link, but the results were too uncertain to be sure. The link appeared in studies of mild, moderate, and severe head injuries, and even one reported head injury was linked with higher odds. ALS is a disease that damages the nerve cells that control muscles; it is different from MS.
Who Should Care and Why
People with MS and their caregivers may find this useful when thinking about fall and injury prevention, but this study did not test people with MS specifically. If MS affects your balance or walking, ask your care team about ways to make moving around safer. A caregiver can help spot trip hazards at home, much like clearing a walkway before carrying groceries. Healthcare providers may use this research to guide questions about past head injuries, not to predict who will develop ALS. A past head injury does not mean you will develop ALS, so discuss any personal concerns with your healthcare provider.
Important Considerations
These studies observed patterns rather than assigning injuries to people, so they cannot prove that a head injury causes ALS. Other factors may help explain the link, and in some cases early ALS symptoms may have contributed to an injury. Because the review did not study MS outcomes, it cannot tell people with MS whether a head injury affects their MS symptoms or treatment.
AI-generated summary — for informational purposes only, not medical advice
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Read MoreUnderstanding MS Research
Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or are seeking to broaden your understanding of this complex, neurodegenerative disease, navigating the latest research can feel overwhelming. Studies published in respected medical journals like Neuroepidemiology often range from early-stage, exploratory work to advanced clinical trials. These evidence-based findings help shape new disease-modifying therapies, guide symptom management techniques, and deepen our knowledge of MS progression.
However, not all research is created equal. Some clinical research studies may have smaller sample sizes, evolving methodologies, or limitations that warrant careful interpretation. For a more comprehensive, accurate understanding, we recommend reviewing the original source material—accessible via the More Details section above—and consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in MS care.
By presenting a wide range of MS-focused studies—spanning cutting-edge treatments, emerging therapies, and established best practices—we aim to empower patients, caregivers, and clinicians to stay informed and make well-informed decisions when managing Multiple Sclerosis.