Exercise Ideas - Coordination

[bricabrac]

Hello Mrs.B,

First look -
"People with multiple sclerosis can often maintain an active lifestyle, although they may tire easily and may not be able to keep up with a demanding schedule. Regular exercise such as riding a stationary bicycle, walking, swimming, or stretching reduces spasticity and helps maintain cardiovascular, muscular, and psychologic health. Physical therapy can help with maintaining balance, the ability to walk, and range of motion and can help reduce spasticity and weakness. People should walk on their own for as long as possible. Doing so improves their quality of life and helps prevent depression. Avoiding high temperatures—for example, by not taking hot baths or showers—can help because heat can worsen symptoms. People who smoke should stop."
(Source: Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Related Disorders: Merck Manual Home Edition)

Research PubMed - MS occupational therapy study results: multiple sclerosis exercise therapy - PubMed - NCBI
This should give you a start finding ideas for the best therapeutic regimen to have a heartfelt discussion with your Doc/OT. Might be best to seek out a therapy center now, vs later. The most important lesson I've learned throughout the years in medical research -- those who began effective measures to combat illness at onset (ie drug treatment combined with therapy), led to more positive outcomes and quality of life was shown to have much better results.

Remember, medicine continues to evolve and extend far beyond what we previously knew or believed could happen. For example, I've worked on studies with cancer patients who were sure they would not survive 12mos, so decided as a last resort to take part in a study. Outcome: The results after two years were simply outstanding, the study participants looked like new people. Even better than they did prior to the disease. I mention this to say, I have seen miracles happen with the correct treatment programs. Research is the key, don't simply rely on the first thing others tell you. Conducting your own research (in combination with your medical team) and keeping yourselves knowledgeable to new, effective, and proven results are crucial to your family. Docs specialize in different methods, no one knows everything. The internet is a powerul tool, use it!

Good luck, my prayers are with both you and your spouse!