Exercise can help a person who has
multiple sclerosis (MS) to:
- Get the most out of the
muscles.
- Maintain and increase endurance.
- Improve
flexibility and range of limb motion.
- Improve cardiovascular
fitness.
- Prevent pressure sores.
- Control
weight.
- Reduce the likelihood of becoming constipated. This is a
particular problem for some people with MS.
Exercise can also promote a sense of achievement and
well-being.
Exercise instruction by a physical therapist is often a part of a
rehabilitation program. Even a person with advanced MS can benefit from passive
exercise in which an assistant helps to move joints through their full range of
motion.
There are also exercises for the person who cannot walk but can move
the limbs and trunk. There are exercises to help with coordination and balance,
which are often a problem for people with MS.
Abnormal muscle stiffness (spasticity) can
be relieved by doing exercises while lying in certain positions.
