Exercise Physiology for Multiple Sclerosis: Slowing Progression and Reclaiming Function

Sven Rees
Jun 8
3 min read

Moving Through MS With Confidence

Living with MS can feel unpredictable. One day you're steady on your feet, and the next you're battling fatigue, numbness, or spasticity. It’s easy to feel like control is slipping away.

At Exercise Matters, we use evidence-based Exercise Physiology to help people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) improve strength, energy, balance, and daily function. With the right movement strategies, you can reduce flare-ups, build resilience, and live better.

What Is MS and How Does It Affect Movement?

MS is a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) around nerves. This leads to:

Muscle weakness or stiffness
Poor coordination and balance
Spasticity or tremors
Fatigue and cognitive fog
Heat sensitivity

Symptoms vary widely and can fluctuate daily. But regardless of the type (RRMS, SPMS, or PPMS), regular, adaptive exercise is now a cornerstone of MS management.

How Exercise Helps MS

Exercise doesn't worsen MS—in fact, it's protective.

Benefits of regular Exercise Physiology for MS:

Improved walking capacity and endurance
Reduced fatigue levels
Increased strength and mobility
Better balance and reduced fall risk
Mental clarity and improved mood

Evidence:

A 2020 systematic review (Pilutti et al.) confirmed that aerobic and resistance training significantly improved fatigue, mood, and function in MS.
The National MS Society strongly recommends tailored exercise for all levels of MS severity.

What to Expect at Exercise Matters

Our Exercise Physiologists tailor programs to your current abilities, goals, and symptom patterns. We modify based on fatigue, heat sensitivity, and relapse history.

Our MS Rehab Programs May Include:

Seated or supported strength training
Low-impact aerobic training (bike, rowing, treadmill)
Balance retraining (unstable surfaces, single-leg drills)
Dual-task training (motor + cognitive)
Spasticity and posture management
Fatigue pacing and energy conservation strategies

We also offer telehealth and home programs for clients with mobility or transport limitations.

Case Study: Belinda, 41, with Relapsing-Remitting MS

Belinda had experienced multiple MS flares affecting her left leg and core strength. She struggled with fatigue and balance when walking outside.

After 3 months of twice-weekly sessions:

Her 6-minute walk test distance improved by 90m
She reduced fatigue severity from 7/10 to 4/10
She resumed hiking short trails with her partner

Her neurologist noted improved walking form and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will exercise trigger an MS relapse?

No. Research shows that moderate, adapted exercise is safe and does not increase relapse rates. In fact, it may reduce inflammatory markers.

2. What if my symptoms vary from day to day?

We adapt sessions based on how you feel that day. You don't need to push through flare-ups. We focus on consistency over intensity.

3. Can you help with fatigue management?

Yes. Our programs include pacing, interval-style aerobic work, and recovery education to reduce overall fatigue burden.

4. Is it safe to exercise with balance problems?

Absolutely. We start with supported movements and progress to safe balance drills as tolerated.

5. Can I use NDIS, Medicare, or private health?

Yes. We accept clients under all funding models and can provide supporting documentation for your plan.

Stay Strong with MS—Move With Confidence

You don’t need to wait for symptoms to worsen before acting. Let us help you build physical and mental resilience through structured, safe, and effective movement.

📞 Call (07) 5448 3532 🌐 www.exercisematters.healthcare

References:

Pilutti LA et al. (2020). Exercise training for multiple sclerosis: A systematic review. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair.
Latimer-Cheung AE et al. (2013). Effects of exercise training on fitness and mobility in MS. Archives of Physical Medicine.
National MS Society. (2022). Physical Activity and MS Recommendations.