What is MS?
Multiple Sclerosis, also known as ‘MS’, is a disease of the nervous system that currently affects 25,600 Australian’s. Women are more likely to be diagnosed than men, and its presentation varies widely between individuals. Common signs and symptoms of MS include tremors, visual disturbances, vertigo, fatigue, difficulty with balance and coordination, bowel and bladder problems, as well as changes in memory and concentration and numbness/weakness in the limbs. In someone that has been diagnosed with MS, their immune system begins to attack the coating, or insulation, around the nerve cells, causing less efficient transmission of messages to and from the brain, which may result in any combination of the above symptoms. These symptoms may vary over time, and an individual may experience periods of ‘flare ups’ in which these symptoms are heightened or worsened.
Where does exercise come in?
Exercise is an extremely beneficial part of a multidisciplinary approach to treating MS and should not be overlooked. Along with all the usual benefits of exercise, such as improved cardiovascular and mental health, people with MS can also use exercise to combat feelings of fatigue, improve concentration and reduce the risk of falls. An exercise physiologist can help individuals with MS in regaining or maintaining the strength, coordination and balance needed to complete daily tasks or participate in leisure activities. Exercise is of increased importance following a flare up, as it can benefit in the recovery of symptoms, and retention of strength and mobility.
The May 50K
At Medicine in Motion, we are extremely passionate about raising awareness for a disease that many of our clients live with. This is why we have gotten onboard with the 2022 May 50K! During the month of May, a bunch of our exercise physiologists and physiotherapists have pledged to walk or run 50km in order to raise much needed funds for research.
If you’d like to check out our progress, donate or get onboard yourself, please visit the link below!
DONATE to the MAY50K HERE
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