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Article by Infofit

Improve Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis With Exercise 

Beneficial effect of exercise on Multiple Sclerosis

Beneficial Effects of Exercise on Multiple Sclerosis

We can not ignore the accumulation of evidence on the beneficial effects of exercise on many Western diseases including Multiple Sclerosis, MS. Including regular monitored physical activity has been associated with a 50% reduction in the risk of death from a variety of established cancers. More recently, the benefits of physical activity has shown  similar benefits with Multiple Sclerosis, MS.

Physical Activity Improved Fitness and Function in Mild Multiple Sclerosis

Exercise not only improves mood and general well-being, it exerts an anti-inflammatory effect. There is plenty of evidence that moderated physical activity improved fitness and function in mild Multiple Sclerosis, MSEvidence shows exercise maintains function for people with moderate to severe MS. This includes aerobic exercise and resistance training. All designed to improve muscle strength function, exercise tolerance functions and mobility-related activities such as walking treadmill training for people with significant disability.

Personalized Exercise Program

A professional physical assessment taken by a certified personal trainer or physical therapist is recommended. They are well aware of the precautions to make the exercise program successful. Ideally design a personalized exercise program that suit their patients’ needs. This all depends on the patients fitness level, symptoms, and overall health. The most important thing for Personal Trainers to be aware of are the Multiple Sclerosis patients already compromised muscular system. MS patients have the risk of overheating and over-training which can end up as straining and possible injury.

Researchers have learned that exercise training significantly increases the levels of 2 types of proteins found in people with Multiple Sclerosis. These are  known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF).  Both have been shown to have some protective effects for neurons in MS, basically helping them repair.

Regular Exercise Program Improve Symptoms in Multiple Sclerosis

People with Multiple Sclerosis typically stay indoors, do less exercise and can suffer from depression. Regular exercise is very effective in preventing cognitive decline which significantly reduces the chances of depression, and over all improves the quality of life for people with MS. A regular exercise program may improve symptoms in Multiple Sclerosis, MS and prevents anxiety, depression, and also suggested that it may also modify the progression of the illness through a neuroprotective effect.

For those who can exercise freely without difficulty, regular aerobic exercise is best, such as swimming, cycling, and running etc. For those who have difficulty exercising, Infofit’s certified personal trainers offer full assessments, and design graded programs to gradually increase the amount of fitness for the patient.

30 Minutes of Monitored Exercise, 5 Days a Week

For maximal benefit, it’s recommended that people with Multiple Sclerosis practice 30 minutes of monitored exercise, 5 days a week. Found here:  https://www.csep.ca/CMFiles/Guidelines/specialpops/CSEP_MS_PAGuidelines_adults_en.pdf