We know that regular exercise is important in maintaining good general health for everyone, but if you are a person living with multiple sclerosis (MS) higher levels of fitness are associated with better cognitive symptoms (information processing) and a range of other positives (reduced fatigue and pain and increased strength, balance and overall mobility). Research suggests that leading an active lifestyle may also help preserve overall brain health in people living with MS.
Falls are much more likely in people living with MS. Falls can have an extremely negative impact on a person’s life and research has shown people with MS may develop a fear of falling which may cause them to restrict or reduce their activities, leading to a poorer overall quality of life for the person concerned.
Seeking support and addressing and reducing anxiety levels has shown to improve mobility, and quality of life. Researchers have looked at various risk factors and prevention programmes and found that functional exercises have the largest effect on balance and reducing fall risks.
Although exercising regularly is undoubtedly good, not all exercise gives the same benefits. Functional exercises are based on the principles of rehabilitation and are usually specifically set to help make activities in daily life a bit easier, for example balance and strength training.
We have a Choices booklet on Exercise and MS, and we have a range of online exercise options. We host regular information sessions and workshops on topics such as ‘functional exercise’ and ‘neuroplasticity’, have accessible exercise classes, exercise masterclasses, and groups (yoga, Love to Move, Neuro Moves).
We make sure all our classes are as accessible as possible and are pitched at diverse ability levels.
There will also be support from your local NHS. There will be falls prevention services and you can ask for a referral to physiotherapy and occupational therapy from your GP or MS team.
If you are struggling to increase your general activity and exercise levels, there will likely be a GP exercise referral scheme. It is worth discussing the local availability with your GP practice. A referral will enable you to get support from a trained exercise professional and subsidised access to a local gym or leisure centre. There may also be community wellbeing schemes, which are a good way of increasing activity, such as the Ramblers Wellbeing Walks or even the Wheels for All accessible cycling schemes.
