Exercise as it relates to Disease/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. (1), 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.(1) The slowing of conduction in the demyelinated motor and sensory tracts can cause problems in balance and gait (walking).(1) This can also occur in the proprioceptive and visual pathways causing imbalance, in coordination and spastic movements. (1)

Problems Associated with Multiple sclerosis.
Multiple Sclerosis effects those between the ages of 20–50 years old (3) with women more likely to be diagnosed than men, with a 2:1 ratio of women to men being diagnosed (2) Majority of the MS population are physically inactive, due to symptoms such as fatigue than can make it very difficult to do so.(2) This can lead to secondary diseases such as obesity and Coronary heart disease.(2) Multiple Sclerosis causes many problems for sufferers in the areas of muscle, sensation, coordination and balance. (4) 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(3)