Multiple sclerosis and physical activity

Trainee nurse : I know that multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, and that it has extremely disabling symptoms, such as loss of muscle coordination, problems with vision, speech, and bladder control. Can physical activity have any positive effects on this illness ?

Resident doctor : Yes. Living with multiple sclerosis can be a difficult experience, both physically and psychologically. Patients experience excessive fatigue, muscle weakness and motor abnormalities. And this is exactly where physical activity comes in.

Nurse : Does that mean that inactivity can further decrease the motor function ?

Doctor : Not only that. A predominately sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of developing secondary health issues such as cardiovascular disease. Exercise has shown to be effective in improving function, mobility and health related issues in people with multiple sclerosis. It may also help ease symptoms and minimize the risk for certain complications like fatigue, vertigo and sleep disorders.

Nurse : What are the exercises that can be done by patients with multiple sclerosis ?

Doctor : There’s no ideal exercice that’s tailored for everyone. The trick is to find what works best for a patient, and what he enjoys, and stick with it. However, in general, water exercises are particularly good for these patients, as they don’t put stress on joints.

Nurse : And I guess that patients must get professional help in this sense.

Doctor : Yes. It is highly recommended that they seek the help of a physical therapist to determine which exercises would be most adapted and beneficial.

Nurse : But then again, isn’t there one sports activity that can best be recommended ?

Doctor : I think that talking of “physical activity” is best suited here. For example, a patient can practice yoga, which helps reduce fatigue. Water exercises can also improve the quality of life and decrease the feeling of fatigue.

Nurse : And what about daily life activities ? Do they have any positive effects ?

Doctor : Sure. Brisk walking or bicycling and even dancing, or leisure activities in general, which are muscle-strengthening exercises, are helpful for a better mood and to maintain overall health.

Nurse : Are there any exercises that might positively influence some physiological functions ?

Doctor : Aerobic exercises, in general, improve bowel and bladder function, but again, yoga helps also in this sense.

Nurse : Is there any special activity that aims at bone strengthening ?

Doctor : Simple weight-bearing exercises in everyday life, like carrying shopping bags, taking the stairs, or jogging strengthen bones and protect against osteoporosis, help maintain body weight and improve the heart health. Most of all, it is important to have regular exercise to help ease symptoms and minimize the risk of complications.