Multiple Sclerosis(MS) is a chronic disease of central nervous system. Over 400,000 people are affected by MS in USA only and 2.1 million people are affected globally. It is caused by autoimmune attack on protective layer of myelin around nerve fibres of optic nerve, spinal cord and brain. It damages protective fat around nerve fibres causing demyelination. New layers of myelin are formed that can cause chronic inflammation which may lead to neurological impairment. Multiple lesions can develop and diminish at several locations of CNS leading to partial or complete impairment to the organ caused by damage to controlling nerve. The other symptoms include fatigue, difficulty problem, tremors, cognitive issues including memory loss, muscular impairment, vision and speech problems. It is diagnosed by MRI, spinal tap, lumber puncture and blood tests.
There is no specific cure for MS completely but certain treatments can help to manage and lessen the symptoms. Physiotherapy has been trusted to manage the symptoms of MS by means of regulate and facilitate controlled and improved muscular movements.
Physiotherapy treatment of MS helps to maintain postural balance, prevents abnormal movements and stimulates sensory and perceptual experience. A physiotherpical assessment plan is set up to educate and train patients about managing their physical routine independently to achieve balanced and easy movements.
Physiotherapy treatment of MS includes following measures to be followed by patients:
-Exercise is the best way to reduce symptoms of early MS: Balancing postures, aerobic training, stationary bike and stretching are some excellent ways to regain normal postures and controlled movements. Walking and slow running can help to strengthen leg muscles. Rowing machine, trademill, elliptical mill are some of the equipments recommended to control MS induced symptoms.
-Aquatic Exercise: Multiple Sclerosis Association of America has supported the benefits of aquatic exercises to manage the symptoms of MS. Water acts as a gentle resistance against exercise movements more relaxing than solid grounds. Swimming improves endurance, flexibility, strength and balance. Water therapy enabled by maintaining a desired temperature of water helps to relax nerves and muscles improving blood circulation and nerve stimulation. Aquatic exercises help to reduce pain, sleeplessness, fatigue caused due to MS.
-Yoga and Meditation: Multiple Sclerosis is an immunological disease and is caused due to internal and not external factors. Yoga and meditation are two practices that improve oxygen level, blood circulation, immunity and postural balance. Meditation relaxes brain nerves and improves functioning of neurons enhancing memory and concentration.
All the exercises involved in the treatment of MS symptoms must be followed under the guidance of a certified and experienced physiotherapist. The patient should maintain a healthy lifestyle by following a healthy diet, performing atleast 150 minutes of physical activity per week, getting enough of sleep and applying immediate measures to manage stress.
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