If you live with multiple sclerosis (MS), preserving your well-being is crucial. Besides being essential for general health, exercises are also helpful for managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. Exercise should suit your skills and interests.
What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
According to the NHS UK, multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, resulting in a variety of symptoms such as problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation, or balance. It’s a chronic condition that can sometimes cause severe disability, but it can also be mild. Symptoms can be treated most times. People with MS have a slightly lower average life expectancy. It is most commonly diagnosed in people in their twenties and thirties, but it can occur at any age. It is approximately two to three times more common in women than in men.
1. Water exercise
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) often experience overheating, particularly when they are performing physical activity. Exercising in a pool will help you stay cool for that purpose. Water also has a natural buoyancy that can support your body and facilitate movement. This means that you will perform exercise inside the pool that you can’t perform outside the pool. (1)
2. Yoga
One study discovered that individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) who practiced yoga had less fatigue compared to individuals who had not practiced yoga. Abdominal (or diaphragmatic) breathing, which is practiced during yoga, may help improve your breathing. The better you breathe, the more easily your blood can circulate through your body. (2)
3. Stretches
Stretching has the same benefits as yoga. This can enable the body to breathe and stimulate the muscles. In addition, stretching can also increase the range of motion and reduce muscle tension. (3)
4. Martial arts
Martial arts such as Tai chi are low-impact exercise. Tai chi has become very famous for individuals with MS. This is because tai chi can help balance the body’s flexibility and core strength. (4)
5. Strength training
Strength training will help the body get stronger and recover from injury more quickly. Sometimes, it can help avoid injuries. People managing multiple sclerosis (MS) may want to try weight training or resistance exercises. A qualified physiotherapist or trainer may help you with an exercise routine that fits your requirements. (5)
6. Recumbent bicycling
Bicycling could be difficult for a person with MS. But exercises, such as recumbent bicycling, may be helpful in managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. You can always pedal as on a traditional bicycle, but since the bicycle is stationary, you don’t have to think about balance and coordination. (6)
7. Balance ball
MS affects the brain and cerebellum. This part of your brain handles the control and balance. When you have trouble holding the balance, a balancing ball may be helpful. You may use a balancing ball to exercise the body’s major muscle groups and other sensory organs to decrease the tension.
8. Aerobic exercise
Any workout that increases your pulse and your heart rate has many health benefits. Aerobic exercise is a perfect way to improve the natural protection mechanism of your body. This can reduce MS symptoms and develop stamina. Exercises such as hiking, swimming, and cycling can help in managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. (7)
Related: Most effective aerobic exercises and their benefits
Conclusion
If you can’t physically match the needs of 30 minutes workout routine, you can divide it up. Five-minute workout intervals will help your health far too much. Before beginning any workout program, it is necessary to see with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend a professional physical therapist until you learn how to exercise.
References
- Exercise prescription for patients with multiple sclerosis; potential benefits and practical recommendations. BMC Neurol. 2017.
- Randomized controlled trial of yoga and exercise in multiple sclerosis. Neurology. 2004.
