what exercises are good for multiple sclerosis
I was dianosed 2008 I am secondary progressive and I am taking Rebiff shots every other day . I used to take jazzercise 2 or 3 times a week and would use the total gym for about 20 years. I also have walk away the pounds tapes. Now i have trouble with balance and walking I use a cantote I have the tapes and the total gym machine . I would like to work out again. I am not on a wheelchair yet and i do not like yoga or pilates. can you help?
Before starting an exercise program, you should really consult with you physician. However, there are many websites which offer advice regarding staying active with MS.
http://www.msactivesource.com/ms-exercise-and-fitness.xml?utm_campaign=H…
For example is a good place to start.
But remember, all the exercise in the world won’t do as much good if your diet isn’t where it needs to be. You need to think of your health in a whole manner. Good luck to you.
-Irene Robertson
Hello Ann,
I train two personal clients with MS and regularly have participants with MS in my group class when I teach MELT. That certainly does not make me an expert on the subject but I may have more insight from personal experiences.
I have do doubt that you are in constant contact with your physician and that you may have spoken to him or her. Are you in an area where there are special physical therapy classes for MS? Because of the fact that no two cases of MS are the same, making recommendations is all but impossible. However, I have found that the MELT Foot Treatment is really useful because it improves the sensation into the feet and thus assists with balance. My personal clients use those balls regularly and have been providing positive feedback to me. Aquatic exercises can also be useful because you can strengthen without the risk of losing your balance.
What I also found in working with my clients is that function that seemed to be lost to MS may be improved if you are really persistent. I have seen it with dorsiflexion in one of my clients and improved hip movement in the other.
I wished I could be more helpful but without actually seeing you, I don’t see how I can. If you feel that I can be of any assistance, you can contact me personally through my web site.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com
Hello Ann,
I applaud your enthusiasm, keep up the great attitude.
I like Karin Singleton’s tip to MELT the feet for better balance.
I also agree with Irene Robertson, that you want to follow a proper diet.
Since you have been dealing with this for a few years, I am sure you know what your body can handle.
Foundations are important and there is no rush. I would start with balance work and work on improving the walking again.
I would suggest that you gradually work your way up to doing a balanced workout with the total gym:
Strength twice a week-8-15 repetitions with moderate weight
Flexibility daily-hold stretches 30 seconds or longer
Aerobic 3-5 times a week-slowly work your way up to an hour, continuous or in shorter bouts
Have you found that you need to wear a cooling vest when exercising?
Of course, listen to your body and work closely with your doctor.
Do you notice when you have the most energy during the day? If possible, I hope you are able to exercise during that time, or at least some of the workout.
Do you have access to someone in your area who can help you?
I wish you the best and please let us know how you are doing.
Come back anytime with more questions, too.
Take care,
Natalie.
Hello Ann
There’s a small article with useful tips. I hope it will help you.
http://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/guide/multiple-sclerosis-exercis…