The ABCs of MS and exercise

0 Comments | Oakland Tribune, Dec 25, 2006 | by Linda Buch

THE NATIONAL MS Society informs us, "MS is thought to be an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS)."

A fatty tissue called myelin protects the CNS -- brain, spinal cord and optic nerves -- and permits electrical impulses to speed accurately along the nerve fiber. If the myelin sheath is damaged, this electrical impulse is impaired. When myelin is lost in multiple areas, scar tissue -- called "sclerosis" -- is formed.

It is this scar tissue that causes the electrical impulse disruption, which in turn produces the symptoms of MS (which can be any number of things: Abnormal fatigue, loss of balance and coordination, bladder problems, tremors, vision problems, vertigo and numbness, to name a few).

The late Jack H. Petajan, MD, PhD, Professor of Neurology at the University of Utah School of Medicine and a leading researcher in multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease, did extensive research with support from the National MS Society. Dr. Petajan found that the old admonition by doctors to MS patients that their primary need was copious amount of rest was wrong.

Early in his research he found that those people whose only medical problem was mild to moderate MS could do 30 minutes of aerobic exercise daily without

increasing their fatigue. He reported the majority of people in the study "feel more aware and energetic. And they are able to accomplish daily living tasks more effectively."

Fatigue and overheating can exacerbate MS symptoms. But the side effects of inactivity (cardiovascular disease, weak muscles and loss of bone density) are worse. For those with MS, research indicated exercise would reduce fatigue, improve strength, posture, mood, sleep and appetite, help with weight loss and maintain a level of independence.

What sorts of activities can those with MS enjoy? The answer is anything you can and want to do; just do it. Whether it is golfing, bowling, walking, bicycling (a stationery bike at home is also recommended) or strengthening with bands, weights or just with the limbs by themselves, all are all fine ways to exercise.

Aquatic exercise is another good option. Unlike those with arthritis and fibromyalgia who require very warm water, someone with MS needs water in the 83- to 85-degree range in order to prevent overheating. Water gives both buoyant support for the body and resistance to the muscles. Check with the MS Society to see if it offers any classes or can refer facilities with mechanical lifts for those with limited mobility.

Stretching is vitally important and needs to be done daily in order to prevent permanent shortening of the muscles. Yoga and Pilates are often recommended. It has also been found that daily stretching facilitates walking and decreases stiffness. For those with limited mobility, deep breathing should be done along with gentle stretching.

The National MS Society recommends exercising during the cooler parts of the day, in cool environments while wearing lightweight clothing. When fatigue sets in, stop and rest and perhaps change activity. Consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program and get a referral to a physical therapist experienced in working with MS patients.

Resources

- "Multiple Sclerosis: A Self-Care Guide to Wellness," Holland NJ, Halper J (eds.). Demos Medical Publishing 2005, $19.95.

- "Multiple Sclerosis: The Questions You Have; The Answers You Need," Kalb R. (ed.), Demos Medical Publishing 2004, $39.95.

- "Managing the Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis," Schapiro R., Demos Medical Publishing 2003 $19.95

- More books on MS are available from Demos Medical Publishing: (800) 532-8663; http://www.demosmedpub.com

- National Multiple Sclerosis Society: (800) FIGHT-MS (344- 4867); nationalmssociety.org

Linda Buch is a certified personal trainer. She will answer fitness questions in Body Language, but not individually. Send questions to Body Language, Bay Area Living, 4770 Willow Road, Pleasanton, CA 94588 or e-mail linda@ljbalance.com.