Physical Therapy for MS

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a devastating disease affecting the central nervous system. According to the Natural Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, MS is an autoimmune disease---the immune system is essentially being tricked (perhaps by a virus or some environmental factor) into attacking healthy tissue. Symptoms include weakness and poor balance and coordination. While there is no known cure for MS, physical therapy can halt further loss of mobility.

Aerobic Exercising

• Regular aerobic exercise is crucial for preventing MS symptoms from growing worse. According to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center (UCSF), aerobic exercises help MS patients regulate sleep patterns, bowel movements and appetites. Walk or jog if you can; if not, swim or ride a stationary exercise bike. Consult your physical therapist to determine which aerobic exercises best suit your needs and abilities.

Stretching

• According to UCSF, regular stretching helps prevent spasticity---muscle spasms in MS patients, especially in their lower legs. Stretching increases muscle length, which in turn increases your flexibility. A yoga or tai chi class will help you stretch while promoting a sense of well being.

Strengthening

• Strengthening exercises, such as weight lifting, build up weakened muscles and prevent further muscle deterioration. UCSF urges MS patients to perform strengthening or anaerobic exercises with caution, as vigorous periods of this type of exercise can cause extreme fatigue. Work with your physical therapist to create a schedule and choose appropriate strengthening exercises.

Coordination Exercises

• According to UCSF, coordination exercises improve balance and your ability to perform daily tasks. Coordination exercises can be as simple as standing on one foot with the other foot extended, but may also involve bending up and down on one foot and performing a variety of other motions.

Upper Body

• Working your upper body is another part of physical therapy for MS, to improve upper body function, flexibility and balance. UCSF suggests performing upper body exercises while on your back or seated. One common exercise involves reaching behind your head with your right hand and trying to touch your left shoulder blade. This is done while gently applying pressure to the elbow with the other hand. Then, alternate sides.