March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the most widespread disabling neurological condition of young adults around the world. Recent findings from a National MS Society study estimates nearly 1 million people in the United States are living with MS.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?       

            Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic neurological condition that affects the Central Nervous System (CNS) which is comprised of the brain and spinal cord. Within the CNS the immune system causes inflammation that damaged the myelin. Myelin is the fatty substance that surrounds and insulates the nerve fibers. When the Myelin or nerve fibers are damaged, messages within the CNS are altered or stopped completely. Over time, hardened scar tissue develops at the lesion site. This hardened scar tissue, or sclerosis, may develop at multiple sites throughout the CNS, hence the name multiple sclerosis. This scarring disrupts the transmission of nerve signals that communicate a desired action from the brain, through the spinal cord, to various parts of the body. The cause of MS is not known, but it is believed to be influenced by genetic factors, immune system abnormalities, as well as environmental factors. 

Common Symptoms of MS

• Fatigue
• Numbing or Tingling
• Weakness
• Walking Difficulties
• Cognitive Changes
• Emotional Changes
• Depression

How is MS treated?

There is no cure for Multiple Sclerosis, but symptoms can be managed with medications in combination with exercise. Often times, individuals who suffer from MS will partake in alternative medicine techniques such as yoga, acupuncture, and meditation.

Exercise is important for those who suffer from Multiple Sclerosis. Physical activity counters muscle weakness and prevents your heart and lungs from having to work hard at rest. Exercise also helps with weight management for people with MS and improves mood by causing the release of feel-good endorphins. 

For the best results, get some exercise on most days of the week. But to prevent burnout and injury, it's important to pace yourself.

Exercise and MS

For people with MS, regular exercise can help:

• Improve mobility
• Improve muscle movements and flexibility
• Improve the overall quality of life
• Reduce the risk of MS-related complications
• Reduce the risk of mental health conditions, such as Depression  

Best Exercises include aerobic exercises, progressive strength training, yoga, water sports, and balance exercises.

References:

https://www.nationalmssociety.org/What-is-MS

https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/facts-statistics-infographic