The interruption of normal nerve signals from the brain to the limb muscles often means that movement becomes more difficult. However appropriate exercise can retrain muscle group, help maintain function, encourage blood circulation and benefit posture.
The centre's physiotherapists are skilled and experienced in the needs of MS sufferers and will develop a personal program for you.
Physiotherapy and Multiple Sclerosis
Both research and a wealth of 'user' experience show that physiotherapy has a vital role in containing the effects of MS.
Individual sessions provide the basis for trained assessment of the MS person in particular areas of difficulty and the exercise routines best needed to control and improve these conditions. The individual's progress can thereafter be monitored and his/her programme adjusted to suit any changes in condition as soon as they become detected.
Different people with different symptoms can benefit greatly from the same type of exercises. Exercise is never easy and people are only asked to do what they are capable of and what is right for their MS state. In spite of the variety of symptoms of MS, there are certain important factors similar to them all.
Some of the symptoms of MS, such as muscle weakness or spasm, occur as a secondary symptom to the initial nerve damage, therefore if the body is persuaded to move normally - even if its reflex responses have diminished - the adverse effect that abnormal movement has on muscles will be delayed. The aims of physiotherapy are to:
- Improve and maintain joint mobility.
- Improve and maintain balance and co-ordination.
- Delay muscle spasms.
- Maintain general fitness.
- Maintain normal patterns of movement.
These in turn will help limb control, reduce spasticity, improve strength, aid walking and act against further secondary complications.
