Facts about MS are that it is a disease of the central nervous system, the brain and spinal cord. There is no known cause, cure or prevention and is the most common neurological disorder among young adults, 20 to 40 year olds. There are some common genetic associations among those who develop MS. MS in women is twice as likely to occur than in men. Probable causes are heredity, infection (possibly a virus or bacteria that may a been dormant), and allergy. There may be environmental associations as well which may act as triggers.

There is a complex chain of events that is involved with the onset of MS. The central nervous system depends on the smooth flow of nerve impulses to keep the body functioning normally. When MS occurs, the nerve flow is interrupted, causing difficulties or failures in the body’s ability to perform certain functions. This could be thought of as the wearing or break in the electrical cord to an appliance causing it not to work just right. Briefly, these nerve shortages are caused by the demyelination or destruction of the protective covering (myelin) of nerves. It is thought, by most researchers, that MS is an “autoimmune disease”. This basically means that white blood cells, the “fighters” of our immune system attack the myelin sheath protecting nerve cells. Most researchers do support the theory of MS being a disease that is initiated by a viral infected and resulting in an autoimmune disorder.

There are typical symptoms among people with MS. There are difficulties with vision, sensation, coordination, strength and cognitive processes. When you talk with those with MS they will tell you that there are a myriad of symptoms that most clinicians do not recognize but exist among patients with MS in varying degrees. MS patients have attacks or exacerbations of symptom flare-ups that last from a couple of days to months and vary in degree of severity. New symptoms may arise and symptoms may last after the “flare” has subsided. MS is treated with medications that reduce the flares and the progression of the disease.

The athletic trainers at FirstHealth are trained in the use of the fitness ball and other tools to enhance strength and balance in the MS client. These benefits act as a compensatory skill to attempt to offset the changes caused by MS. These skills can include increasing core strength, strengthening muscles that need strengthened to help in every day activities, stretching muscles that become too tight because of the facilitation of activities by other muscle groups, and balance which is enhanced by use of the fitness ball. Our athletic trainers understand that it is important to be aware of fatigue and temperature so that the exercise experience is a positive one.

A Patient's Story

A client who has been working with a trainer at FirstHealth tells her story.

“I was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS back in 1986 – before the MRI was a common diagnostic tool. When I was told I have MS, I was terrified. It's a disease that can strike me at any time, in any part of my body. That's frightening. Attacks leave areas of plaque – just like the plaque you get on your teeth – on affected areas of the brain. As of my last MRI count, I have about 15 areas of plaque on various parts of my brain. My left side is weak; when I'm tired, I limp. That's just the way it is.

However, I have learned to deal with my disease as best I can. There was a very real psychological process I had to go through when I was told I have a chronic, debilitating disease. I know it will not go away, ever. Maybe there will be a cure some day, but I don't hold my breath waiting for that. I just live my life and do what I can to care for myself. I give myself a shot of Avonex every week. I watch what I eat, and I get enough sleep (MS can increase fatigue). Most important of all, I exercise. Exercise is important for me – it's a way I can have some control over my body. It helps me to accept my body as mine, that it does not belong to the disease. It helps me sleep well. And it helps keep depression (also a common symptom of MS and of Avonex treatment) at bay.

I've been working with Donna Schneider at First Health Andover since last June, on Dr. Paul Schoonman's recommendation. I had exercised pretty religiously since my diagnosis and had always found it helpful, but I kept injuring myself because I did not know what I was doing.

When Donna showed me what could be done with the physio ball, I thought, "Oh, sure. There is no way I'll ever be able to balance on that thing." I was wrong. I found that with concentration and hard work, I can balance on the ball, I can do the exercises and I even have fun. The program Donna designed for me has really increased my confidence and strength. Imagine how thrilling it has been for me not only to increase my balance and strength, but to be successful in an exercise program!”

It must be remembered that everyone subjected to the effects of MS feel them in differing degrees or that you have been diagnosed with a progressive form of MS. It is very important to seek medical care through a qualified physician. The athletic trainers at FirstHealth of Andover will discuss your concerns with you and your primary care physician so that the best program will be designed for you.”

References:
Nichols, Judith Lynn, Women Living with Multiple Sclerosis, Alameda California, Hunter House, 1999.
O’Connor, Paul, MD., Multiple Sclerosis The Facts You Need. Buffalo, New York: Firefly Book, 1999.
Rumrill, Phillip D., Jr. and Hennessey, Mary L., Multiple Sclerosis, A Guide for Rehabilitation and Health Care Professionals. Springfield, Illinois: Charles C. Thomas, 2001.
Wells, Susan, Multiple Sclerosis: The Process and Medical Treatments. The Multiple Sclerosis Assoc. of Amer., 1998.