Recent Breakthrough – Pilates Eases Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

Recent Breakthrough – Pilates Eases Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system. It can affect any area of the central system: visual, sensory and motor signs and symptoms are all part of MS. The symptoms also vary between people.

Multiple sclerosis causes difficulties of the motor control. Muscles are not co-operating the way they should to work together, resulting muscle spasm, cramps, stiffness, weakness and fatigue. The joints feel stiff too and range of motion decreases. Spasticity is one of the most common symptoms of MS. It can be described as involuntary muscle contractions that are not coordinated with other muscles. Spasticity may also produce feelings of pain or tightness in and around joints, and can cause low back pain. However, spasticity is more common in the legs.

Many years ago the doctors used to recommend that people living with MS should avoid exercise entirely due to fear of aggravating symptoms. However, now there is strong evidence which suggest that regular exercise not only improves quality of life for people with multiple sclerosis, but that it may also help ease symptoms. However, the exercise program has to address your special needs. Pilates is the most suitable exercise form for people with multiple sclerosis. It is low-impact and when taught by professional Pilates instructor, it can effectively help you with your problems.

Pilates is using gentle and controlled movements, and when Pilates exercise is carefully planned, it will ease your MS symptoms. Pilates offers many exercises that improve your coordination, muscle control and balance, just what you need most. As additional benefits of Pilates, it can reduce your muscle spasms, leg stiffness and spasticity, improve your joint mobility, muscle flexibility and strength. Pilates also trains your motor control and connection between your body and mind.

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that needs to be addressed on all levels mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. You find all those components in Pilates, it’s a perfect match.