Staying Active with Multiple Sclerosis: Tips and Tricks to Improve your Physical Activity

Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can present unique challenges, especially when it comes to staying active. Fatigue, heat sensitivity, muscle weakness, and balance and coordination issues can make exercise feel daunting, but maintaining an active lifestyle is crucial for managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. Amanda O’Neill, founder and physiotherapist at Coffs Neuro Physio, emphasises the importance of movement: “Staying active can significantly improve your quality of life. It’s all about exercising the right way and finding what works for you.” 

Begin with short, manageable exercise sessions, focusing on activities you enjoy. Amanda advises, “We use interval training in our programs, to reduce the risk of heat sensitivity and neuromuscular fatigue. We build this up gradually to build tolerance and confidence to exercise.”   

MS presents very differently across individuals. Adding exercises into your day that are specific to your presentation will help to improve your overall function. “While any physical activity is better than none, it’s important to incorporate exercises that specifically target a person’s individual presentation to improve their outcomes,” Amanda notes.

Heat sensitivity is a common issue for people with MS. Keeping the body as cool as possible while exercising can make a big difference to people’s ability and confidence to exercise. “One of the easiest strategies we encourage is for people to bring ice cold water to sip on before and during their session,” says Amanda.  

Assistive devices can help people improve their independence and ability to participate in exercise and function. Devices include things like ankle braces to support drop foot and walking poles to provide extra stability.  

Water-based exercises are excellent for people with MS, as they reduce strain on joints, provide natural resistance and allow people to work hard with less compromise to their balance. “Contrary to what it may seem, warm hydrotherapy pools up to 34 degrees can have a cooling effect to help manage heat sensitivity for people with MS. Particularly if the outside temperature isn’t too warm.”,” says Amanda. 

Engaging in group activities can enhance motivation and accountability. “Joining classes or groups allows you to exercise alongside others with MS, fostering a supportive environment that encourages regular activity,” Amanda suggests. 

Pay attention to how your body responds to different exercises. “If something feels too much, modify the activity or take a break. Rest is just as important as movement,” Amanda reminds. 

At Coffs Neuro Physio, we understand the challenges of living with MS. Our MS Get A Head Start program is an innovative, internationally recognised initiative designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to lead a fitter and healthier life with MS. As the only licensed provider of this program in Coffs Harbour, we are leaders in this space locally. 

If you’re ready to take the first step, book anintroductory block of sessions before diving into the 6-week group program that will teach you the right way to exercise and manage fatigue effectively. We also offer a an ongoing Maintenance group and a Later Stage MS group tailored to specific needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help you stay active and achieve your goals.