The goal is to maximise quality of life

Neurological Protection

There are exciting developments in research showing that exercise could have potential neuroprotective effects on the central nervous system. When you work vigorously hard certain key chemicals are released increasing synapse (nerve) activity, which is vital for maintaining brain health. Animal studies have shown that regular intensive exercise can slow the progression of MS however this has been difficult to confirm in the human population, studies are starting to support this potential mechanism.

Exercise will not cure or stop the progression of the disease but could have the potential to slow progressive disease down.

Another important element is that regular exercise can reduce the levels of inflammatory markers in the body, which are commonly elevated in people with MS due to the inflammatory nature of the condition. Anything that can proactively reduce the inflammation levels in the body can have a positive effect on symptom presentation.

However the main point is that inactivity causes a faster physical decline, so the stronger and fitter an individual is with MS then the more control they have over the general decline of inactivity.

Exercise has also been proven to make positive impacts on:

  • Cardiovascular fitness

  • Increased strength and day to day function

  • Decreasing fatigue

  • Improving and protecting cognitive function

  • Increasing and maintaining bone density

  • Increased metabolic drive

  • Improving balance

  • Reducing the risk of falling

  • Improving psychological well being

  • Reducing pain

  • Decreasing spasticity

  • Overall improvement of Quality of Life

6 Core Principles to be followed

1.

High effort – 80% or predicted HR max or Borg scale.

2.

Intervals – to ensure high effort is achieved and to allow for adequate recovery to avoid fatigue.

3.

Challenge – needs to be challenging to achieve any form of change.

4.

Specificity – Address specific client goals which were highlighted in initial assessment.

5.

Frequency – Ensure clients are starting to increase overall activity and exercise levels outside of program.

6.

Fun – Ensure they have a laugh, enjoy the session and see exercise as a positive experience.