Are there precautions I need to take because of my MS?
There are precautions that everyone should take when exercising and, depending on how MS affects you, there may be particular things you need to think about.
Speak to your GP
If you have not exercised for a while, or are thinking of significantly increasing the amount you do, you should speak to your GP beforehand, to be sure what you do is safe. Your GP may recommend you see a physiotherapist.Just like anyone else, if you have other health issues, such as asthma, a heart condition or osteoporosis, these need to be taken into account with any exercise plans.
Start slowly with any new regime
Don’t try to do too much, too soon. Starting slowly with a new regime lets your body get used to the new activity and also helps you judge whether that choice of exercise is comfortable for you. Over time, you will be able to gauge what your limits are. You may notice your limits change as your abilities and fitness levels change, so adjustments here and there might be beneficial.Warm up and cool down
To guard against injury or making any existing muscle problems worse, you should always warm up, with gentle stretching, before any strenuous activity. If you are doing aerobic exercise, you should start slowly, to build the heart rate gradually. To avoid muscles becoming tight and stiff, stretching should also be done as a ‘cooldown’ afterwards.Adapting to MS symptoms
The symptoms you experience may have an influence on the exercise you choose to do, but having MS does not mean that you automatically need to stop doing activities and exercise you enjoy.For example, if you experience vision problems you might opt for alternative forms of exercise or adapted sports where eyesight is not so important. Muscle stiffness or painful sensations could make contact or movement uncomfortable, but by working with a physiotherapist you might find more comfortable, but still effective, activities. Some people with MS experience difficulties with memory and with understanding complex explanations (known as ‘cognitive problems’) and may find it useful to have written notes and diagrams from a physiotherapist or trainer. A family member or carer might also be able to learn the exercises with you to help remember them accurately.
You may want to use sports centres, exercise classes or personal trainers at gyms. If you do, consider any adjustments you might need the centre or trainer to make, to take account of your MS. This could include access to the facilities and whether the trainer has an understanding of MS. Has anyone else with MS in the area worked with the same trainer? The local branch of the MS Society might be aware of suitable groups or trainers. If you have a physiotherapist, they may be able to talk with trainers to help them understand MS.
