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Multiple
Sclerosis

cares

Clinical & Rehabilitation Exercise Sheets

By Monica Pagels, MS, CES

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is believed
to be an autoimmune disease
that occurs when the body’s
immune system attacks the
myelin which surrounds the
nerve fibers. The damage to the
myelin interferes with the nerve
impulses to the brain and spinal
cord, which can lead to muscle
weakness, fatigue, vision
problems, and other symptoms.
The progression of MS is highly
individual, ranging from mild
flare-ups to severe progression
of symptoms with eventual
paralysis in some people.

Who gets it and how?

MS affects predominately white populations and
approximately two to three times more females.
African Americans demonstrate about half the
risk of acquiring the disease. Susceptibility to MS
appears to also have a genetic predisposition.
Environmental factors are also involved in the
pathogenesis of MS. Diagnosis usually occurs
between 20 to 40 years of age and is rarely fatal.

The cause of MS is unknown, however, there is
strong evidence to suggest an infectious origin.
Numerous viruses have been linked to MS such
as rabies, measles, and herpes complex. MS is
generally acquired during the years of puberty
and lies dormant for many years. Symptoms
emerge an average of 12 years after onset.

How is it treated?

Conventional medicines are used to treat acute
flare-ups such as anti-inflammatory and immuno-
suppressive drugs. New therapies include drugs
that may slow the progression of certain types of
MS and may increase nerve cell activity. Studies
have also found that lifestyle measures such as a
low fat diet and regular exercise enhance health
and decrease symptoms.

What are the precautions?

Individuals with MS are sensitive to heat and
easily become fatigued. Avoid overheating which
can worsen MS symptoms and take frequent rest
breaks throughout the day to conserve energy.
The MS patient generally exhibits poor coordina-
tion and disturbances in posture and balance
that may be improved with assistive devices.

How is it prevented?

There is no known prevention for MS at this time.

For more information, visit

www.Thera-BandAcademy.com

©2000. The Hygenic Corporation. This page may be

reproduced by professionals for patient use only.

Thera-Band and Associated Colors are trademarks of The

Hygenic Corporation. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

1-800-321-2135 www.thera-band.com

– P03692 –

Who can I contact?

National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS)

1-800-243-5767

web site: www.nmss.org

Monica Pagels, MS, CES [phone]

Botsford General Hospital

ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN BEFORE

BEGINNING ANY EXERCISE PROGRAM.

THIS GENERAL INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED

TO DIAGNOSE ANY MEDICAL CONDITION OR TO

REPLACE THE ADVICE OF YOUR HEALTHCARE

PROFESSIONAL. DISCUSS A SPECIFIC EXERCISE

PRESCRIPTION WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE

PROFESSIONAL. IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY PAIN OR

DIFFICULTY WITH THESE EXERCISES, STOP AND

CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER.

Recommended Thera-Band

®

Products

Available From:

Exercise Ball

Upper Body Kit
Lower Body Kit

Exercises
for Multiple
Sclerosis

Exercise Tips

• Consult your healthcare

provider for an appropriate
exercise prescription.

• Include cardiovascular exercise

as part of your routine, includ-
ing short intervals of walking,
biking, rowing, or upper body
cycling.

• Include balance and postural

exercises such as one-leg
balance, step-ups, or sitting
on an exercise ball.

• Take frequent rest breaks

and avoid overheating with
exercise.

Thera-Band

®

Resistive Exerciser

BICEPS CURL: Begin with elbow
straight and held at the side. Bend
elbow. Hold and slowly return.

KNEE EXTENSION: Begin with knee
bent. Extend knee. Hold and slowly
return.

CHEST PRESS: Begin with hands at
shoulder level. Extend elbows. Hold
and slowly return.

EXTERNAL ROTATION: Begin with
elbow at side. Rotate forearm away
from body. Hold and slowly return.

KNEE FLEXION: Begin with knee
straight. Bend knee. Hold and slowly
return.

PULL DOWN: Begin with hands at
shoulder level. Pull elbows back-
ward. Hold and slowly return.

INTERNAL ROTATION: Begin with
elbow at side. Rotate forearm
toward body. Hold and slowly
return.

TOE RAISES: Place exerciser under
toes. Lift heels off floor. Hold and
slowly return.

TRICEPS: Begin with elbow bent.
Extend elbow. Hold and slowly
return.

A L W A Y S C O N S U L T Y O U R P H Y S I C I A N B E F O R E B E G I N N I N G A N Y E X E R C I S E P R O G R A M