Today is World MS Day – is an international awareness day for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). It brings the global MS community together to share stories, raise awareness and campaign for change.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Today, an estimated 2.9 million people around the world have MS.
MS is an inflammatory demyelinating condition. It is caused by damage to myelin – a fatty material that insulates nerves. In MS, the loss of myelin affects the way nerves conduct electrical impulses to and from the brain. Symptoms can include blurred vision, weak limbs, tingling sensations, unsteadiness, memory problems, and fatigue.
Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. MS is two to three times more common in women than in men. There is no drug that can cure MS, but treatments are available which can modify the course of the disease. (Source : worldmsday.org)
MS is a progressive disease that affects all aspects of daily life including fatigue, cognition, strength, balance, and coordination. With the correct physical interventions this condition is able to be slowed and people are able to continue to enjoy their lives for much longer. Latest research recommends that people with MS complete a range of physical activities daily including high intensity interval training as it actually assists with reducing fatigue and not creating more fatigue.
Concentric first met Sharon in November 2023 with her first NDIS plan as she had noticed some changes in symptoms of her MS. She was initially diagnosed in her 20’s and now in her 50s she and her partner had decided that it was time to receive some support and put in place some necessary plans to slow the progression. She initially began her therapy with Exercise Physiology and Occupational Therapy to assess and build and maintain her physical capacity and prevent falls as she was beginning to stumble and walk into things around the home.
Sharon now engages in twice weekly group exercise classes to work on physical capacity, strength, balance and endurance and to minimise fatigue from MS. This allows her to be able to keep up with her kids and all their activities. Last week Sharon completed a successful e-trike trial as she has not ridden a bike in 30 years. She achieved this goal of being able to cycle with her kids and dogs and now is looking for other bike paths to tackle – see pic below
If you would like to know more about how the Concentric allied health teams work together with clients who have MS, please contact 1300 148 160 or email support@concentric.com.au.
