Minimize your Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptoms with Exercise

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease caused by inflammation in the brain. As a result of the inflammation, the body’s immune system begins to attack the insulating coating (myelin) around axons. Axons are almost like a tail on a brain cell. This “tail” allows the brain cell to send electric messages to other parts of the brain and body.

When the myelin is destroyed, the axons are no longer insulated. As a result, the electric messages fade before reaching their destination. The inability to send these messages translates into a variety of symptoms, depending on which brain cells are affected. These symptoms include depression, blurred vision, tingling or numbness of the hands or feet, difficulties with coordination and balance, fatigue and bladder problems.

The most common type of MS is “relapsing-remitting MS” (RRMS) – where the symptoms flare up in an unpredictable manner for a short period of time, followed by months or years of remission. During the remission, the symptoms can go away completely or, especially as the disease progresses, they can leave permanent problems.

“Progressive MS” is another form of the disease. In progressive MS, the symptoms accumulate slowly over time and there is no remission period. Approximately 65% of RRMS patients will eventually transition to progressive MS, although it takes about 19 years on average after the initial RRMS diagnosis. Intuitively, a MS patient might shy away from exercise. After all, how could exercise possibly be good for a disease that causes numb feet, coordination problems and fatigue?

Scientists have conducted clinical trials on the benefits of exercise in MS patients – looking at patients with mild and severe MS – and the results are very similar across all studies. The short answer is: EXERCISE IS GOOD FOR YOU, TOO!

Here’s a summary of their major findings:

• Exercise DOES NOT increase your chance for a relapse. When your core temperature rises (also known as heat sensitivity), you may experience numbness, tingling or blurred vision. These symptoms are NOT a relapse, and will go away once you cool down.
• Regardless of your disability, you will benefit from exercising in as few as six months.
• Exercise DECREASES your fatigue. It sounds counter-intuitive, but it’s true. Exercise will boost your endorphins and increase your energy levels.
• Strength training and endurance training have the same benefits.
• Exercise can help improve your mood and can act as an anti-depressant.

Tips to help you choose an exercise plan

• If you suffer from heat sensitivity, try drinking cold drinks before and during exercise. This will help keep your core temperature down.
• If you suffer from heat sensitivity, also try to limit the duration or location of your exercise routine. For example, try exercising in a pool when it’s really humid outside, or run in the early mornings instead of the afternoons.
• If your symptoms include problems with balance and mobility, include some core-strengthening exercises in your routine or sign up for a Pilates class at your local gym.
• Adjust your workout according to your abilities. A 100-pound female shouldn’t go to the gym and immediately try bench-pressing 200 lb. Nor should you. Start slow and slowly build up your weight, your number of reps and duration on the treadmill.
• Hire a personal trainer to design a workout specific to your abilities. If it makes you feel more comfortable about exercising, then it’s worth the expense.
• If you’re nervous, exercise with a buddy. They’ll help you relax and keep you motivated!