Exercise as it relates to Disease/Effects of exercise on Multiple Sclerosis

What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Multiple Sclerosis affects the brain and the spinal cord due to the damage of the myelin, axon and oligodendrocytes. There is a higher activation of the body's natural killer cells and these attack the myelin proteolipid protein.(1) The process of the demyelination of the axon slows down the conduction velocity of the axon. The slowing of conduction in the demyelinated motor and sensory tracts can cause problems in balance and gait (walking). This can also occur in the proprioceptive and visual pathways causing imbalance, in coordination and spastic movements.

Problems Associated with Multiple sclerosis.
Multiple Sclerosis effects those between the ages of 20–50 years old. Majority of the MS population are physically inactive, due to symptoms such as fatigue than can make it very difficult to do so. This can lead to secondary diseases such as obesity and Coronary heart disease. Multiple Sclerosis causes many problems for sufferers in the areas of muscle, sensation, coordination and balance. These symptoms can make it hard for sufferers to lead normal lives as it can restrict their social interaction, lose their occupation, effect mental health and stops them from performing normal day to day tasks.

Prevalence and Incidence

 * In 2009 there was approximately 23,700 Australians living with Multiple Sclerosis. Of these it was found 48% had a severe core activity problem.
 * Caucasians are more affected by Multiple Sclerosis than any other racial group.
 * Women more likely to be diagnosed than men, with a 2:1 ratio of women to men being diagnosed.

Recommendations for Exercise.
At this point in time Multiple Sclerosis has no cure and so therefore the supportive interventions used to try and improve the daily lives of MS patients is important. One strategy that is considered important in the intervention and the slowing of the disease is Exercise. Exercise can help individuals suffering with MS to increase their fitness, help reduce fatigue and most importantly improve their quality of life. There are many different types of exercise which can be used to help patients with Multiple Sclerosis have the best quality of life and help manage some of the symptoms associated with MS,

Research Support on effects of exercise on Multiple Sclerosis.

 * A study found that a 5 week Respiratory Muscle Training(RMT)program mixed with progressive resistance patients who suffered mild to moderate MS had improved inspiratory and expiratory muscle strength and also decreased fatigue.
 * A study undertaken by Motl et al showed that individuals who participate in more exercise reported lower levels of fatigue.
 * An 8 week aquatic exxercise program was undertaken and showed that individuals improved their level of fatigue and also their health related quality of life.